Training Options
NZ Equine Industry Training Organisation
There are four tertiary education options in NZ – University, Polytechnic, Industry Training Organisations (ITO) and private Training Establishments (PTE). ITO’s offer on-job training with qualifications via employers and other training providers.
The NZ Equine Industry Training Organisation monitors equine training incorporating courses and providers in NZ, incorporating breeding, thoroughbred racing, equestrian sport and recreation, and sources funding from Government agencies.
What qualifications are available?
In New Zealand, the NZ Qualifications Authority provides a Framework for the industry to register unit standards (skills) and package national qualifications. The Framework enables trainees who gain unit standards to transfer them where appropriate from one qualification to another. NZQA qualifications are recognised internationally. The Equine ITO has developed training pathways/qualifications beginning at level 2 through to level 4 on the NZQA Framework.
Visit the NZQA website for full details of NZQA registered qualifications in the equine field.
The ITO also has a handy Career Path flow chart which shows how the various levels of National Qualifications tie in with each of the various careers that are available to you. By clicking on the various links you can find out more about each career, where you can train and how to find more information for the respective jobs.
What are the training options?
There are two pathways to training in the Equine Industry. How you decide to train will be effected by how you prefer to learn, how ready you are to enter the work force and what your financial situation is.
1. On the Job - earn while you learn
Finding a job via a traineeship or Modern Apprenticeship is the first step to getting useful experience. Visit the ITO's section on finding work for more advice. This is a good option if you:
- Need/want to earn and learn at the same time
- Have some experience/confidence handling horses
- Can work independently when required
- Know the specialty you want the work in
- Want to learn and be in a working environment
- Are able to find employment
2. With a training provider
You can view a list of accredited training providers on the NZQA website. This is a good option if you:
- Are willing to finance your studies
- Prefer access to day to day tutor/lecturer support
- Want to be in a studying environment
- Need more time before entering the workforce
- have ability to complete academic assessments
Are you already working in the equine industry but have no qualifications?
If you are currently working in the industry but have no formal qualifications you can become qualified while you are working. You do not need to leave work or get a student loan. Through a process called Recognition of Prior Learning or Recognition of Current Competence, you can receive recognition for the skills and knowledge you already have. There is a process to be followed and your skills will need to be assessed.
Work Experience
Starting out in the stables as a stable groom is a common element to most equine careers. With more specialist training and experience it is possible to progress to almost any other sector. Gaining any form of work experience around horses, whether paid or unpaid, will help you gain an understanding of the requirements of the equine industry. It will also help you decide if this is the industry you want to join.
Do you have a Query?
If you would like to discuss the different career or training options available to you, please contact the NZ Equine Industry Training Organisation (T: 0800 84 11 11)
