New Zealand Certificate in Equine Skills (Sporthorse Stable Assistant) Level 3 (Full or Part-time)

Strategic Purpose Statement

The purpose of the New Zealand Certificate in Equine Skills (Sporthorse Stable Assistant) Level 3 is to provide the equine industry with individuals who have the skills and knowledge to assist in the stabling, care, and/or exercise of horses in the performance horse sectors of the equine industry. The Sporthorse Stable Assistant strand reflects the specialist skills required to work in the Sporthorse industry in a riding role.

Graduate Profile

Graduates will benefit by having a qualification that provides recognition of their skills and a pathway to further qualifications in the equine racing or Sporthorse industry. Graduates will be able to:

  • Attend to the routine day to day requirements of horses in training.
  • Apply skills and knowledge in the routine identification, reporting, and treatment of problems of horses in training, and respond appropriately to emergencies involving horses.
  • Communicate effectively with team members and clients.
  • Apply routine procedures when exercising and training horses for a Sporthorse discipline.
  • Conduct the routine preparation of a horse for an event, and attend to horse's and rider's requirements at the event.
  • Horse health.
  • Conformation, lameness, and clipping.
  • Horse gear.
  • The foot and shoeing.
  • Equitation and Lunging.

Education Pathways

Learners may pathway to further study to achieve the following qualifications: New Zealand Certificate in Equine Skills (Sporthorse Groom) (Level 4)

Employment Pathway

Graduates of this qualification will have the skills and knowledge to be employed as Sporthorse stable assistants. With further work experience and study, graduates may gain employment as Sporthorse grooms.

Entry Criteria

Open entry but must have the physical capability to cope with the practical demands of the qualification. Students must enjoy working in an outdoor environment and have basic riding experience prior to entry to programmes leading to this qualification.

A student fee applies. Contact us for eligibility criteria and course fees. Programme approved for international students.

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