Certificate III in Horse Husbandry

The Certificate III in Agriculture (Horse Husbandry) (RTE30703) is a one year full-time course designed to give students a wide range of practical skills to equip them to work in the horse industries.

Career prospects

The horse industry is a large employer in the Hunter and other parts of NSW. Jobs include stablehands, strappers, track riders, stationhands, vet assistants, polo grooms, horse breakers/trainers, and stud work for the thoroughbred and pleasure horse industries.

Some students continue onto the Certificate IV in Agriculture or undertake further studies in horse husbandry at other institutions.

Prerequisites

Year 10 or equivalent, however many students have completed year 12. Experience with horses and sound riding ability is required.

Course components

• Practical work: about half the course involves practical training on College and local horse properties in the Hunter Valley.
• Other Units: Students learn about horse health, nutrition, breeding, breaking and training, foal and weaner handling, pastures and fencing.
• Farm skills: students learn a range of practical horse, tractor operation and general farm skills to equip them for their first job.
• Individual studies: self directed learning projects in students’ areas of interest.

Resources

Tocal runs over 100 stock horses including a group of brood mares which are used to breed replacements. Foals and yearlings are handled by students and students break in and train young horses.

Facilities for College horses include horse paddocks and yards, tack room and stables. The college property of 2200 hectares runs up to 1500 beef cattle and all stock work is done with horses.

Fees

Fees are charged for board and lodging (includes room and all meals), tuition, tours, student asscoiation fees, equipment and resources used in the course. A schedule of fees is contained on the 'Facts and Figures' page. Fees are payable at the start of each term or by fortnightly instalments.

Financial assistance

There are a large number of scholarships available for students enrolled at Tocal. Application forms are in the college prospectus. Most students also qualify for Youth Allowance or Abstudy which may cover most fees (contact Centrelink for more information).