The Society of Master Saddlers has revealed that two candidates have successfully completed the newly redeveloped City & Guilds Assured Certificate in Bridle Fitting which includes measuring and bitting.
Paige Archibald from Northumberland and Charlotte Cheeseman from Kent successfully attained the qualification after completing a series of online learning modules, practical training days and continual assessments over an 18-month period.
“Choosing to train as a bit and bridle fitter through the Society of Master Saddlers was an easy and obvious decision,” said Paige.
“The Society’s unwavering commitment to horse welfare and its involvement in the latest research gave me complete confidence that I was receiving the very best learning experience – delivered by lecturers with exceptional depth of knowledge.
“The course itself struck the perfect balance of practical and self-paced online learning, and everyone involved was so warm and supportive – never once making me feel there was a silly question to ask. I’d wholeheartedly encourage anyone considering it to take the leap.
“Having worked with horses throughout my career – including a great deal of rehabilitation work – I’ve seen first-hand just how vital well-fitting tack is. It’s our first and most important line of communication with the horse, and it has to be right. Being able to now offer this service to my clients in Northumberland is something I’m truly excited about.”
“A natural next chapter”
The course ensures candidates gain both theoretical knowledge and hands-on experience and is designed for individuals who wish to pursue a professional career in bridle and bit fitting.
“I’m thrilled to now be a qualified bridle fitter – a milestone that feels like the natural next chapter in a career built around combining equestrianism with craftsmanship,” said Charlotte.
“When the Society of Master Saddlers introduced the Bridle Fitting course, I knew immediately it was something I wanted to pursue.
“The growing body of research in this area is fascinating – it’s increasingly clear just how significantly bridle fit can influence a horse’s comfort and freedom of movement, and I was eager to deepen my understanding of that.
“As a bench saddler, being able to measure and make bespoke bridles for clients’ horses is the perfect extension of what I do – bringing together fitting expertise and the ability to create something truly tailored to the individual horse. Ultimately, it all comes back to the same goal: ensuring every horse is comfortable and happy.”
Redeveloped course
The qualification is developed and delivered by the Society of Master Saddlers and graduates are awarded the title of Society of Master Saddlers’ Registered Qualified Bridle Fitter (SMS RQBF).
“This milestone represents an exciting moment for the Society as we celebrate the first successful candidates to complete the redeveloped course,” said Catherine Baker, bridle fitting course leader.
“The Society of Master Saddlers has redesigned its bridle fitting qualification course, maintaining a strong focus on equine welfare. If you aspire to become a well-rounded, knowledgeable qualified bridle fitter with access to a superb support network, then this is the most comprehensive bridle and bit-fitting course available.”
The next course begins in August 2026. For more details click here.
