Performance Horse

The Performance Horse program at GOTAFE is a comprehensive qualification designed for individuals passionate about training, caring for, and managing performance horses. This course provides students with essential skills and knowledge required to excel in the horse industry, focusing on the specialized needs of performance horses such as eventing, dressage, show jumping, and other competitive disciplines. Throughout the program, students will learn about anatomy, physiology, and biomechanics of horses, enabling them to develop effective training and rehabilitation strategies tailored to high-performance animals. The curriculum emphasizes hands-on practical experience, allowing students to work directly with horses under the supervision of industry professionals, fostering confidence and competence in handling and training high-performance equine athletes. Additionally, students will explore topics such as nutrition, vet care, grooming, tack, and health management, ensuring a holistic understanding of equine well-being. The program also covers aspects of event preparation, including conditioning, fitness regimes, and competition procedures, preparing graduates to support performance horses throughout their careers. Emphasis is placed on safety, ethical training practices, and animal welfare to promote responsible horsemanship. Upon completion, graduates will be equipped with the skills to pursue careers as performance horse trainers, equine handlers, or industry professionals specializing in high-performance equine sports. The Performance Horse program at GOTAFE is ideal for those looking to develop a career in the equine industry with a focus on excellence in performance and care.

The Performance Horse program at GOTAFE is designed to develop students' skills and knowledge in the areas of equine management, riding, and performance disciplines. This comprehensive course offers a blend of theoretical learning and practical hands-on experience, allowing students to gain a well-rounded understanding of the equine industry focused on performance horses. Throughout the program, students will engage in rigorous training in horse handling, grooming, and care, along with advanced riding techniques suited for various performance contexts such as dressage, show jumping, eventing, and rodeo disciplines. The curriculum emphasizes horse biomechanics, stable management, and health, ensuring graduates are equipped to optimize the performance and wellbeing of horses.

Students will learn about the science of horsemanship, including nutrition, equine behaviour, and training methods that promote successful performance outcomes. Practical sessions take place in modern facilities, providing opportunities for students to develop their riding skills under the supervision of experienced instructors. Additionally, the program covers business and event management skills necessary for careers in the competitive horse industry, including event organization, marketing, and customer relations.

The Performance Horse program aims to produce graduates who are confident, competent, and professional in their approach to equine performance careers. Graduates may pursue careers as professional riders, trainers, stable managers, or industry entrepreneurs. The program’s emphasis on industry-relevant skills ensures students are prepared to work in diverse settings, from equine facilities and training centres to competitive events and rodeos. With a strong focus on hands-on experience and industry connections, students will build networks that support their career aspirations in the exciting world of performance horses.

The Performance Horse program at GOTAFE is designed to prepare students with the skills and knowledge necessary for a successful career in the equine industry, specifically focusing on the training, management, and care of performance horses. The program includes comprehensive coursework covering horse anatomy, physiology, nutrition, and biomechanics, providing students with a solid foundation in equine science. Practical training is a core component, offering hands-on experience in riding, training, and management practices tailored to performance horses, including disciplines such as dressage, show jumping, and eventing. Students will learn about horse behavior, handling techniques, and safety procedures to ensure the well-being of both the horse and handler. The program emphasizes horse health management, including disease prevention, grooming, and basic veterinary care, alongside equine facility management, maintenance, and safety standards. Students are also introduced to business principles relevant to the equine industry, enabling them to undertake career roles in training, coaching, or managing equine facilities.

Entry requirements typically include a minimum age of 17 years and successful completion of secondary education, with preferred completion of Year 12 or equivalent. Vocational experience or prior training in horse handling may be advantageous but is not mandatory. Applicants may be required to undertake an interview and demonstrate practical horse handling skills as part of the admission process. The program is delivered through a mix of classroom-based learning and practical workshops at GOTAFE’s equine training facilities, often supplemented with placements at local stables and equine businesses to enhance real-world experience. Assessment methods include written assignments, practical demonstrations, and project work, with a focus on ensuring competency in both theoretical understanding and practical skills. Graduates of the Performance Horse program are equipped to pursue careers as professional trainers, riding instructors, stable managers, or other roles within the equine industry, with the opportunity to further their education through advanced courses or industry certifications.

The Performance Horse program at GOTAFE offers a range of flexible financing options to assist students in funding their studies. Students can explore government-supported financial aid, including a variety of scholarships, grants, and youth allowances, which are designed to reduce the financial burden associated with tertiary education. Additionally, the program participates in the Australian Government’s FEE-HELP scheme, allowing eligible students to defer a portion of their tuition fees, repayable once their income reaches a specified threshold. GOTAFE also provides payment plans, enabling students to split tuition fees into manageable installments over the duration of the course, thereby easing cash flow concerns. For those who require additional financial assistance, the institution offers advice on external funding opportunities through industry partnerships and equine associations. International students, if applicable, may have access to different financial support options, but should verify specific eligibility and requirements. Additionally, students are encouraged to seek information about potential employer-sponsored training or scholarships provided by equine industry organizations, which can further offset costs. The program emphasizes flexibility in financing to accommodate diverse student circumstances, aiming to support access to quality education without undue financial hardship. Prospective students are advised to consult the GOTAFE website or contact student services for detailed and up-to-date information about all available financial aid options and application procedures, ensuring they can make informed decisions about funding their education in the Performance Horse program.

The Performance Horse program at GOTAFE is designed to equip students with the skills and knowledge necessary to excel in the equine industry, specifically focusing on the performance horse sector. This comprehensive course covers a wide range of topics including horse training, riding techniques, management, breeding, and health care, providing students with a well-rounded understanding of working with performance horses. Students will gain practical experience through hands-on training, working with a variety of breeds and disciplines such as dressage, show jumping, eventing, and other performance-based activities. The program emphasizes safe handling, effective communication with horses, and the development of leadership skills required for a successful career in the equine industry. The curriculum is designed to meet industry standards and prepare students for employment opportunities in equine facilities, riding schools, competition venues, or to start their own equine businesses. The course often includes assessments and projects that simulate real-world scenarios, ensuring graduates are job-ready upon completion. Additionally, students may have access to industry connections and mentoring opportunities, enhancing their employability. GOTAFE’s facilities include specialized riding arenas, horse yards, and classrooms equipped with modern teaching aids to support learning. The program is suitable for individuals passionate about horses and looking to build a professional career in the performance horse industry. Upon completion, graduates are empowered with the technical skills, practical experience, and industry knowledge necessary to pursue diverse career pathways.