The Open College of Equine Studies

About us

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The Open College of Equine Studies (TOCES) is a not-for-profits distance learning college offering an exciting range of high quality equine distance learning courses to students from all over the world. TOCES hosts regular residential Study Weeks to supplement the theoretical work covered in the distance learning courses. However long you have been involved with horses, whether you wish to study for your own pleasure, to complete British Horse Society examinations or to gain a professional academic qualification, we have a course for you.

Founded in 1988, TOCES has acquired a reputation for providing the highest standards of equine education world-wide. In addition to catering for the complete newcomer to horses, TOCES has proved to be innovative with the introduction of specialist diplomas and equine higher education distance learning programmes.

Situated in the heart of rural East Anglia, on the Boxted Estate in the Glem Valley, near Bury St Edmunds, Suffolk, TOCES is based in a traditional Victorian stable yard in the grounds of Boxted Hall, a 14th century moated baronial hall.

We have an all-weather arena within a walled garden, parkland grazing and excellent hacking. Period buildings have been converted to offices and a library. On Study Weeks students stay on-site in Boxted Hall.

Boxted Hall

Study Weeks include lectures and practical sessions by veterinary and professional staff from the Animal Health Trust, The Royal Veterinary College, the Beaufort Cottage Equine Hospital (Rossdales and Partners), Cambridge University Veterinary School and The National Stud. Study Weeks include visits to centres of excellence in and around Newmarket.

Course material, written and reviewed by a team of highly qualified experts, including specialist equine veterinary surgeons, is presented in an easy to read, distance learning format and the calibre of course tutors is second to none. In addition to a wealth of experience, most of our tutors hold BHS qualifications and have successfully completed Honours Degrees, Masters Degrees and PhDs in equine subjects; some are world-renowned experts in their field.

The friendly team at TOCES is dedicated to providing you with the best levels of advice and support. Office and tutorial staff are available to assist you at all reasonable times via telephone, fax or e-mail.

Whilst TOCES offers a greater range of courses, is highly professional and is associated with more world-renowned equine organisations than any other equine distance learning college, we are proud of our reputation of having a friendly and personal approach with our students.