ACM30821
Certificate III in Horse Care

Riding Horses A introduces you to the foundational skills and knowledge needed to safely ride calm, well-trained horses under supervision. This subject focuses on building your confidence and ability to control a horse at walk, trot, and canter within a secure environment such as exercise yards or fenced arenas.

You’ll learn how to work with horses that are suited to beginner riders, developing essential riding techniques while always prioritising the safety and welfare of both rider and horse. The subject also covers key safety considerations and risk awareness, helping you understand how to manage potential hazards when working with and around horses.

By completing Riding Horses A, you’ll gain the practical riding skills, safety awareness, and foundational knowledge required for entry-level riding tasks, setting the stage for further learning and progression as a capable, responsible rider.

If you do not have access to your own horses and coach and already, you will need to enrol with an approved riding school to complete the necessary lessons to learn to ride. Horse riding lesson costs are not included in your course fees.

PRACTICAL ASSESSMENT
This subject requires practical assessment of your ability to control two different horses through walk, trot and canter in an arena, at least three times each, including some when other horses are present in the arena too. This is a minimum of SIX assessed rides with an approved riding instructor.

Ride Horses B builds on the foundational skills gained in Riding Horses A, taking your riding to the next level. In this subject, you’ll learn to ride educated horses both on the flat and while negotiating set obstacles, gaining confidence in a variety of controlled and open environments—such as paddocks, exercise yards, arenas, trails, and event venues.

You’ll develop more advanced riding techniques while continuing to prioritise the safety and welfare of both horse and rider. The subject covers risk assessment, safe riding practices, and how to manage different riding situations and environments, ensuring you’re well-prepared for real-world challenges.

Prerequisite: You must successfully complete Riding Horses A before commencing in Ride Horses B.

If you do not have access to your own horses and coach and already, you will need to enrol with an approved riding school to complete the necessary lessons to learn to ride. Horse riding lesson costs are not included in your course fees.

If you do not have access to your own horses and coach and already, you will need to enrol with an approved riding school to complete the necessary lessons to learn to ride. Horse riding lesson costs are not included in your course fees.

PRACTICAL ASSESSMENT
This subject requires practical assessment of your ability to control two different horses through walk, trot and canter in an arena AND out in the open AND negotiating obstacles, at least three times each, including some when other horses are present in the arena too.

You will have to demonstrate transitions within the gait, as well as between gaits, be able to perform rising and sitting trot, and be able to canter more than 500 metres.

This is a minimum of SIX assessed rides with an approved riding instructor.

Ride Horses C is designed for experienced riders who already demonstrate a high level of competence and confidence in the saddle. This subject focuses on assessing, schooling, and improving the way of going of educated horses, rather than simply riding them through set tasks or environments.

In this subject, you will learn to critically assess a horse’s level of education, responsiveness to aids, balance, fitness, mouth and bitting, and overall suppleness. You will work with a supervisor to develop, document, and implement a structured schooling and exercise program that reflects the horse’s intended use, the ability and fitness of the end rider, and practical considerations such as program duration, cost, and logistics.

You will also develop and demonstrate a range of schooling exercises aimed at improving correctness, control, and quality of movement. These may include accurately ridden circles, lateral movements, transitions, simple changes, counter canter, halts, rein-back, and turns on the forehand or hindquarters. Throughout the subject, strong emphasis is placed on rider effectiveness, horse welfare, and making informed training decisions in real-world equestrian settings.

Prerequisite: You must successfully complete Riding Horses B before commencing in Ride Horses C. If you are not at this level of riding yet, you will complete Equine Behaviour & Welfare instead.

If you do not have access to your own horses and coach and already, you will need to enrol with an approved riding school to complete the necessary lessons to learn to ride. Horse riding lesson costs are not included in your course fees.

PRACTICAL ASSESSMENT
This subject requires practical assessment of your ability to control three different horses through all three paces and at least three different more advanced schooling exercises such as various laterals, simple changes, back up, counter canter etc. You will have to devise and implement and undertake a training program of at least three rides per horse.

This is a minimum of NINE assessed rides with an approved riding instructor.

Equine Behaviour and Welfare develops the skills and knowledge required to observe, interpret, and respond appropriately to horse behaviour while supporting safe handling and positive welfare outcomes. This subject focuses on understanding normal and abnormal behaviour, identifying behavioural risks, and applying evidence-based principles to manage and educate horses effectively.

You will learn how to assess individual horse behaviour through observation and handling, identify likely causes of behavioural challenges, and evaluate risks associated with different behaviours in a range of work environments. The subject also explores current learning theory and training approaches, enabling you to select suitable, welfare-focused methods for managing behaviour and supporting horse education.

PRACTICAL ASSESSMENT
This subject requires access to two different horses where you can undertake tasks in assessing their welfare and putting a management plan in place.

Lunging Horses introduces you to the essential techniques and knowledge required for exercising horses safely from the ground. This subject focuses on the correct use and fitting of lungeing equipment, understanding safe lungeing practices, and recognising the signs of fatigue or stress in horses before, during, and after exercise.

You’ll learn how to lunge calm, well-educated horses under supervision in a variety of settings, such as yards, exercise arenas, and event areas. The subject also explores the reasons for lungeing, the basics of horse movement and behaviour during groundwork, and key safety considerations for both handler and horse

PRACTICAL ASSESSMENT
This subject requires a practical assessment to occur with three different educated calm horses, over 10 minutes of lunging each.

Training Horses to be Lunged builds on the skills and knowledge developed in Lunging Horses, focusing on the practical training required to teach and improve a horse’s response to lungeing. This subject moves beyond basic exercise to concentrate on developing clear communication, consistency, and correct movement from the ground.

You will learn how to progressively train suitable horses to lunge calmly and confidently, refine voice and body cues, and address common training challenges under supervision. The subject also explores how learning theory applies to groundwork, how to recognise and respond to signs of tension or fatigue, and how to adjust your approach to support effective training, horse welfare, and handler safety across different training environments.

PRACTICAL ASSESSMENT
This subject requires a practical assessment to occur with two different horses that are new to lunging.

Grooming at Events focuses on the skills and knowledge required to prepare, present, and care for horses in a competition or event environment. This subject covers planning and organising resources for events, grooming and gearing up horses to competition standard, and providing practical support to riders, handlers, and team members on the day.

You will learn how to work within event rules, venue requirements, and discipline expectations, applying judgement and discretion when preparing horses and managing their care throughout an event. The subject also addresses working efficiently in busy, high-pressure environments, responding to both predictable and unexpected challenges, and maintaining horse welfare when managing valuable animals away from their home setting.

PRACTICAL ASSESSMENT
This subject requires practical assessment to occur with two different educated horses at a recognised/official event/events.

Equine Nutritional Advice develops the knowledge and practical skills required to assess horse condition, understand dietary needs, and provide appropriate nutritional guidance within the scope of your role. This subject focuses on how nutrition supports horse health, digestion, condition, and workload, and how diet influences both short- and long-term wellbeing.

You will learn to evaluate common horse diets, identify the features of a well-balanced ration, and recognise signs of nutritional imbalance or deficiency. The subject also explores the consequences of poor or inappropriate feeding practices, including impacts on the digestive system and overall health, and identifies situations where dietary or digestive issues may require professional intervention.

PRACTICAL ASSESSMENT
This subject requires you to devise three different nutritional plans for three different horses (owned by at least 2 different people).

Natural Equine Reproduction develops the practical skills and knowledge required to assist with natural mating procedures in a stud or breeding environment, while prioritising safety, horse welfare, and accurate record-keeping. This subject focuses on preparing for mare mating, identifying mares in oestrus, and safely supporting the natural service process under workplace protocols and supervision.

You will learn how to handle mares and foals safely during teasing, service, and routine reproductive procedures, applying appropriate work health and safety controls and using personal protective equipment to reduce risk. The subject also covers recognising behavioural and physical signs associated with oestrus, preparing and restraining mares for hand service, and managing horses before, during, and after mating.

In addition, you will develop skills in supporting routine veterinary reproductive procedures, including handling and restraining mares for examinations, pregnancy testing, swabbing, and treatment. Strong emphasis is placed on maintaining accurate identification and breeding records, communicating effectively with team members, and following stud practices and industry standards throughout the breeding process.

You will need access to a horse breeding stud for placement during breeding season. Access to Tarcombe Fjords in Victoria is available.

PRACTICAL ASSESSMENT
This subject requires you to attend and assist with natural mating preparation for at least three mares, two with a foal at foot, and one maiden mare. You are not required to handle stallions for this subject.

Equine Conformation & Movement develops the skills required to assess a horse’s structure, muscling, and movement with a focus on soundness, suitability, and breeding outcomes. This subject centres on identifying anatomical features that influence durability, athletic potential, and long-term function.

You will learn to safely observe and assess skeletal structure, limb conformation, muscling, and posture, and to recognise desirable and undesirable traits relevant to breeding and end use. The subject also explores how basic biomechanics affect balance and movement, and how age, development, conditioning, and injury can influence physical performance.

Practical training includes observing horses at rest and in motion, identifying irregularities or limitations, and assessing suitability for intended breeding or work purposes. You will develop the ability to communicate conformation and movement assessments clearly and make informed recommendations that support breeding decisions, horse welfare, and long-term soundness.

PRACTICAL ASSESSMENT
This subject requires practical assessment of your ability to assess at least 2 new or inexperienced participants, and one experienced rider across three horses (one each) where one horse is assessed for two different activities. You will need access to these riders through your local horse riding club or school, or instructor.

Monitoring Equine Health develops the skills and knowledge required to recognise, monitor, and respond appropriately to changes in horse health and wellbeing in an equine workplace. This subject focuses on understanding normal horse physiology and behaviour, identifying early signs of illness or injury, and applying routine health care and biosecurity practices to support animal welfare.

You will learn how to implement routine horse health care and preventative treatment plans, maintain accurate health records, and apply biosecurity measures to reduce the risk of disease. The subject also covers assessing horse condition and health status, recognising indicators of infectious disease, and taking appropriate action, including isolation or reporting where required.

PRACTICAL ASSESSMENT
This subject requires practical assessment to occur with two different educated horses at a recognised/official event/events.

Foaling Down develops the skills and knowledge required to prepare for, monitor, and support the foaling process in a breeding environment, with a strong focus on safety, horse welfare, and timely intervention. This subject covers preparation for foaling, close observation of pregnant mares, and appropriate responses throughout birth and the immediate post-foaling period.

You will learn how to calculate and record foaling due dates, monitor mare health and condition, prepare foaling facilities and equipment, and implement foaling plans in line with workplace procedures. The subject emphasises recognising the signs of imminent foaling, maintaining a safe and hygienic environment, and identifying when professional veterinary assistance is required.

Practical skills include monitoring the foaling process, supporting mare and foal immediately after birth, managing the umbilical cord and placenta, and observing early nursing and bonding behaviours. You will also develop skills in monitoring newborn foal health, recording identifying features, maintaining accurate foaling records, and reporting any concerns promptly.

PRACTICAL ASSESSMENT
This subject requires you to be involved in the preparation of two mares for foaling down, and monitoring them post foaling, and the handling of one newborn foal.

Handling Young Horses (Weaning to Yearling) develops the skills and confidence required to safely handle, manage, and care for young horses during the critical stages from weaning through to yearling age. This subject focuses on low-stress handling, hazard awareness, and the application of consistent, ethical practices that support both horse welfare and handler safety.

You will learn how to prepare for work with young horses by following workplace procedures, identifying risks, selecting appropriate equipment and PPE, and maintaining accurate records. Practical skills include safely catching and restraining foals for routine health and husbandry tasks, and assisting with the weaning process in facilities designed to minimise stress and injury.

The subject also covers the progressive handling of weanlings and yearlings, including haltering, leading, handling legs and feet, and introducing young horses to regular human interaction. You will develop skills in exercising, grooming, and presenting yearlings for sale, including fitting head collars, rugs, and other gear in a safe and controlled environment.

By the end of this subject, you will be able to confidently support the early handling, preparation, and presentation of young horses in breeding, sales, and stud settings, using practices that promote calm behaviour, good manners, and long-term soundness.

If you do not have access to your own horses and coach and already, you will need to enrol with an approved riding school to complete the necessary lessons to learn to ride. Horse riding lesson costs are not included in your course fees.

PRACTICAL ASSESSMENT
This subject requires practical assessment of your ability to control two different horses through walk, trot and canter in an arena AND out in the open AND negotiating obstacles, at least three times each, including some when other horses are present in the arena too.

You will have to demonstrate transitions within the gait, as well as between gaits, be able to perform rising and sitting trot, and be able to canter more than 500 metres.

This is a minimum of SIX assessed rides with an approved riding instructor.

Riding Horses A introduces you to the foundational skills and knowledge needed to safely ride calm, well-trained horses under supervision. This subject focuses on building your confidence and ability to control a horse at walk, trot, and canter within a secure environment such as exercise yards or fenced arenas.

You’ll learn how to work with horses that are suited to beginner riders, developing essential riding techniques while always prioritising the safety and welfare of both rider and horse. The subject also covers key safety considerations and risk awareness, helping you understand how to manage potential hazards when working with and around horses.

By completing Riding Horses A, you’ll gain the practical riding skills, safety awareness, and foundational knowledge required for entry-level riding tasks, setting the stage for further learning and progression as a capable, responsible rider.

If you do not have access to your own horses and coach and already, you will need to enrol with an approved riding school to complete the necessary lessons to learn to ride. Horse riding lesson costs are not included in your course fees.

PRACTICAL ASSESSMENT
This subject requires practical assessment of your ability to control two different horses through walk, trot and canter in an arena, at least three times each, including some when other horses are present in the arena too. This is a minimum of SIX assessed rides with an approved riding instructor.

Ride Horses B builds on the foundational skills gained in Riding Horses A, taking your riding to the next level. In this subject, you’ll learn to ride educated horses both on the flat and while negotiating set obstacles, gaining confidence in a variety of controlled and open environments—such as paddocks, exercise yards, arenas, trails, and event venues.

You’ll develop more advanced riding techniques while continuing to prioritise the safety and welfare of both horse and rider. The subject covers risk assessment, safe riding practices, and how to manage different riding situations and environments, ensuring you’re well-prepared for real-world challenges.

Prerequisite: You must successfully complete Riding Horses A before commencing in Ride Horses B.

If you do not have access to your own horses and coach and already, you will need to enrol with an approved riding school to complete the necessary lessons to learn to ride. Horse riding lesson costs are not included in your course fees.

If you do not have access to your own horses and coach and already, you will need to enrol with an approved riding school to complete the necessary lessons to learn to ride. Horse riding lesson costs are not included in your course fees.

PRACTICAL ASSESSMENT
This subject requires practical assessment of your ability to control two different horses through walk, trot and canter in an arena AND out in the open AND negotiating obstacles, at least three times each, including some when other horses are present in the arena too.

You will have to demonstrate transitions within the gait, as well as between gaits, be able to perform rising and sitting trot, and be able to canter more than 500 metres.

This is a minimum of SIX assessed rides with an approved riding instructor.

Keeping Others Safe when Riding focuses on the skills and judgement required to assess horses and match them appropriately to riders, handlers, or drivers to minimise risk and promote safe, effective horse use. This subject addresses the critical role of horse suitability in preventing incidents and supporting positive outcomes for both people and horses.

You will learn how to assess a horse’s temperament, education, behaviour, physical condition, and fitness in relation to specific tasks and environments. The subject also covers evaluating the experience, ability, and physical capacity of riders, handlers, or drivers, and making informed decisions about appropriate horse selection.

PRACTICAL ASSESSMENT
This subject requires practical assessment of your ability to assess at least 2 new or inexperienced participants, and one experienced rider across three horses (one each) where one horse is assessed for two different activities. You will need access to these riders through your local horse riding club or school, or instructor.

Skill Instruction for Riding Coaches develops the skills and knowledge required to plan, deliver, and review structured instruction for practical riding and horse-handling skills, with a focus on work-based skills in real equestrian environments.

You will learn how to prepare for instruction by confirming learning outcomes, assessing learner needs and experience, and organising suitable horses, facilities, and equipment. The subject covers delivering clear demonstrations, providing guided practice, and using effective communication techniques to support skill development while maintaining safety for horses and riders.

Emphasis is placed on monitoring learner progress, providing constructive feedback, adjusting instruction to suit different learning styles, and managing risk in riding and stable settings. You will also develop skills in reviewing instruction effectiveness and making improvements to support ongoing learning.

By the end of this subject, riding coaches will be able to confidently instruct practical riding and horse management skills in a structured, supportive, and safe manner.

PRACTICAL ASSESSMENT
This subject requires you to be involved in the coaching of others either riding or handling horses.

Equine Behaviour and Welfare develops the skills and knowledge required to observe, interpret, and respond appropriately to horse behaviour while supporting safe handling and positive welfare outcomes. This subject focuses on understanding normal and abnormal behaviour, identifying behavioural risks, and applying evidence-based principles to manage and educate horses effectively.

You will learn how to assess individual horse behaviour through observation and handling, identify likely causes of behavioural challenges, and evaluate risks associated with different behaviours in a range of work environments. The subject also explores current learning theory and training approaches, enabling you to select suitable, welfare-focused methods for managing behaviour and supporting horse education.

PRACTICAL ASSESSMENT
This subject requires access to two different horses where you can undertake tasks in assessing their welfare and putting a management plan in place.

Grooming at Events focuses on the skills and knowledge required to prepare, present, and care for horses in a competition or event environment. This subject covers planning and organising resources for events, grooming and gearing up horses to competition standard, and providing practical support to riders, handlers, and team members on the day.

You will learn how to work within event rules, venue requirements, and discipline expectations, applying judgement and discretion when preparing horses and managing their care throughout an event. The subject also addresses working efficiently in busy, high-pressure environments, responding to both predictable and unexpected challenges, and maintaining horse welfare when managing valuable animals away from their home setting.

PRACTICAL ASSESSMENT
This subject requires practical assessment to occur with two different educated horses at a recognised/official event/events.