ACM20221
Certificate II
Horse Care
Course Features
- Self Paced, up to 12 months
- Enrol & start anytime
- Online & Work Placement learning
- Nationally Recognised Qualification
- $3,000
- Upfront payment or payment plans available

Overview
Do you love horses and have always wanted to work around them? If so, ACM20221 Certificate II in Horse Care course from the Pet Stylist Academy will provide you with all the skills and confidence you need to join this exciting and rewarding industry.
Serving as an ideal introduction to the equine industry, ACM20221 Certificate II in Horse Care course provides thorough exposure to the facets of horse care. It instructs participants on how to execute ethical and humane horse care routines, including instruction on carrying out hygiene procedures for horses, ensuring their proper feeding and hydration, delivering elementary equine first aid, and contributing to the overall health maintenance of horses. Students will also develop crucial professional abilities such as effective interpersonal communication, comprehension of health and safety regulations, and the execution of environmentally sustainable practices within their work environment.
Moreover, ACM20221 Certificate II in Horse Care course extends beyond the fundamental aspects of horse care by introducing participants to the rudiments of horse riding. This includes acquiring knowledge of primary riding techniques, handling, fitting, and maintaining key horse riding equipment. The addition of this module to the course offers participants a more comprehensive understanding of the equine sector, thereby broadening their knowledge base and practical proficiency.
You won’t need to attend any on-campus classes, the qualification is available online, and with self-paced practical training that can be arranged by you at your choice of workplace. Enquire for more information.
Course Details
Units of Study
Core Units
- ACMEQU212 Handle horses safely
- ACMEQU213 Follow safe work practices in equine industries
- ACMEQU215 Provide daily care for horses
- ACMEQU216 Check and treat horses
- ACMEQU217 Load and unload horses
Elective Units
- ACMEQU220 Lunge educated horses
- ACMEQU218 Perform horse riding skills at walk, trot and canter
- ACMEQU219 Develop riding skills for exercising horses
- ACMEQU311 Prepare horses for presentation at an event
- ACMEQU306 Provide Routine Care of Horses
- ACMEQU214 Prepare to Work Safely Around Horses
- ACMEQU312 Prepare and care for horses to perform at events
- RGRPSH308 Provide first aid and emergency care for horses or other equine
Course Duration
The Australian Qualifications Framework determines that the duration of this qualification is 1 Year – 2 year, however with both face-to-face training, and flexible online learning, learners are typically completing within the first 12 months. How quickly a student is able to complete the course will depend on how fast they work through the content, their commitment to learning and their level of competence.
Course Delivery
This course is taught using a blended approach which includes online theory lessons and work placement.
Online
The theory components for the animal acre course are delivered online which means students are not required to attend classes or lectures. Students will receive access to our ‘Learning Portal’ where they will find the course materials, interactive learning materials, videos and assessments. In addition, students will also receive a hard copy of the Learner Resource.
While studying online, students will have access to our teaching support team via email, online chat or phone. Our teaching team will help support and guide students every step on their journey.
Self Paced Practical Training
Once the student has completed their theory study and assessments of the horse care course, they are then able to commence their practical training. The practical training is self-paced and can be work placement, volunteering or utilising a horse stable you have access to. During the practical tasks you will require the use of several different horses to perform a range of activities or tasks. Students can use a work placement , pony club or other horse club where suitable horses are accessible.
It is essential when attempting any unfamiliar tasks that you are under the supervision of an experienced horse person. Supervision should continue throughout the practical training and assessment tasks to minimise any risks.
Learning Materials
Digital Learning – Access all course theory and assessments through an easy-to-use online platform.
Learning Portal – 24/7 access to the National Skills Training Institute Learning Management System (LMS)
Course Checklist – A clear, step-by-step guide to track your progress through both theory and practical components.
Student Learning Resource – Hard copy of the study material for easy reference.
Practical Assessment Forms – Essential documents for completing and recording your practical training.
Inclusive Learning Support – Flexible strategies to ensure learners with disabilities can fully participate.
Assessment Types
- Online quizzes and knowledge checks
- Written assignments and theory assessments
- Practical tasks and demonstrations
- Workplace or simulated observations
- Role-play and scenario assessments
- Logbook or skills journal
- Third-party reports
- Oral questioning and interviews
Course Requirements
Entry Requirements
- Minimum 15 Years of Age
- Completed Year 8 or equivalent
- Access to a computer, laptop or tablet
- Internet access and email address
- Physically capable of restraining animals and standing for extended periods of time
Unique Student Identifier (USI)
A Unique Student Identifier (USI) is a personal reference number that creates a secure online record of all your nationally recognised training in Australia. Every student must have a USI to enrol in accredited courses and to receive their qualification or statement of attainment.
Recognised Prior Learning (RPL)
If you are currently working—or have previously worked—in a relevant horse care or equestrian industry role, you may be eligible for Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL). RPL allows your existing skills and workplace experience to be formally assessed against the units of competency for this course, potentially reducing the amount of study you need to complete.
To explore RPL opportunities, please contact our Team at admin@nsti.edu.au to discuss your experience and begin the assessment process.
Course Enrollment Process
- Apply to Enrol – Submit your application form and required personal details.
- LLND Assessment – Complete the mandatory Language, Literacy, Numeracy and Digital skills check to identify any support needs.
- Enrolment – Confirm your place by providing identification and signing the student agreement.
- Payment Options & Funding – Choose a payment plan and, if eligible, apply for government funding or subsidies.
- Access Study Portal – Receive login details to the online learning platform to begin your course.
Fees and Payment Options
1. Payment Plans - Direct Debit
- $29 per week (24 months)
- $38.50 per week (18 months)
- $58 per week (12 months)
2. Instalments - via Invoice
Pay in four (4) installments –
- 1st installment $300 enrolment fee plus
- 3 x $900 installments


FAQS
1. Are your qualifications & course nationally accredited in Australia?
2. When can I enrol with NTSI?
3. Can I finish the course faster than the duration?
4. What if I don't finish the course on time, can I get an extension and will there be a fee?
5. What s the competency based training?
1. What is work placement?
2. Can I choose more than one (1) workplace for my course placement?
3. How are students assessed during their work placement(s)?
Each unit also features Practical Task Worksheets that outline specific tasks to be completed during the placement. Supervisors sign off on each task once it is successfully completed. All practical assessments, including the signed worksheets, must be submitted via our online learning platform for evaluation by our tutors. Additionally, students must maintain an attendance record signed by their supervisor to verify the completion of required placement hours. Regular feedback from supervisors is collected and shared with students to ensure continuous improvement and skill development.
4. Can I complete my work placement with my current employer?
5. Can I volunteer at an organisation for my work placement for an animal course requirement?
1. How is online learning different to classroom based learning?
2. Is online study the right choice for me?
At NSTI, we provide all your learning materials and assessments through our online campus, so everything you need is in one convenient place. With just a computer and internet connection, you can start your learning journey. Plus, our dedicated Student Support team is here to assist you with any questions, time management tips, or study advice you might need.
3. Do I need a computer, laptop or tablet to study with NSTI?
All coursework is automatically saved, providing you with the flexibility to continue your studies without interruption. Whether you use a laptop or tablet, you’ll have a seamless and engaging learning experience.
4. How proficient do I need to be with computers to study online with NSTI?
While these are the essential skills, having additional abilities can enhance your learning experience. These include participating in online discussions and webinars, uploading documents through websites, compressing image files, and creating different file types such as Word documents and PDFs. If you’re comfortable with these tasks, you’ll be well-prepared to succeed in our online courses.
5. What are the benefits of studying online?
Moreover, online study promotes independent learning, catering to various learning preferences and paces. Students can choose alternative study methods that align with their individual learning processes, whether that means working independently or taking more time to absorb content. This mode of learning is ideal for those who need to manage other responsibilities alongside their education and prefer a more self-directed approach to developing their skills.