GOTAFE
1 year
Master the skills of horse handling, health care, and equine behaviour in this practical Certificate III. Ideal for horse enthusiasts seeking a career in the equine industry with direct pathways to university degrees.
Applicants must complete a Basic Key Skills Builder (BKSB) online test to ensure required literacy and numeracy levels. A Pre-training Review interview is required to ensure the course suits your needs. Workplace students require minimum 15 hours paid employment in an approved workplace. Physical requirements include moderate stamina, strength, agility and coordination to handle horses safely. Students must have a laptop/computer with internet access, digital camera, and suitable work clothing including long pants, sleeved shirt, and work boots.
The course comprises 11 units: 8 core and 3 elective. Core units cover: Handle horses safely, Follow safe work practices in equine industries, Work effectively in an equine organisation, Implement and monitor horse health and welfare practices, Implement and monitor horse feeding programs, Relate equine form to function, Identify equine anatomy, and Identify and describe equine physiology. Elective units include: Handle racehorses in stables and at trackwork, Examine the application of horse breeding principles and practices, and Prepare for the care of pregnant mares, foals and young horses.
GOTAFE is a government-accredited Registered Training Organisation (RTO 3094) with national recognition. The provider offers flexible delivery options including workplace training and online study, comprehensive student support services, and direct pathways to further qualifications including the Bachelor of Equine Science with Charles Sturt University. GOTAFE's experienced trainers provide personalized support through monthly virtual catch-ups and practical workshops.
Graduates can pursue roles as Stable Hands, Stud Hands, Grooms, or Horse Rider Coaching Assistants. The qualification provides direct entry into the Bachelor of Equine Science with Charles Sturt University. Further study options include Certificate III in Horse Breeding, Certificate IV in Veterinary Nursing, Certificate IV in Agriculture, and Certificate IV in Farriery, opening diverse career pathways in the equine and agricultural industries.
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