This unit describes the performance outcomes, skills and knowledge required to safely handle horses, particularly those used in equestrian sport or recreational riding programs but it could have wider application to other equine settings.

Horses are handled in contained areas including stables, fenced arenas, yards, round yards and paddocks.

It requires knowledge of horse temperament, behaviour and body language to safely interact with horses and the ability to catch, lead, tie up and release horses.

This unit applies to a range of organisations including those involved in equestrian sport, instructional and recreational riding programs. It applies to people working at all levels who handle horses as part of their regular work activities.

No occupational licensing, certification or specific legislative requirements apply to this unit at the time of publication.

You may want to include more information here about the target group and the purpose of the assessments (eg formative, summative, recognition)

List each assessment task's title, type (eg project, observation/demonstration, essay, assingnment, checklist) and due date here

Assessment task 1: [title]      Due date:

(add new lines for each of the assessment tasks)

Copy and paste from the following data to produce each assessment task. Write these in plain English and spell out how, when and where the task is to be carried out, under what conditions, and what resources are needed. Include guidelines about how well the candidate has to perform a task for it to be judged satisfactory.

Copy and paste from the following performance criteria to create an observation checklist for each task. When you have finished writing your assessment tool every one of these must have been addressed, preferably several times in a variety of contexts. To ensure this occurs download the assessment matrix for the unit; enter each assessment task as a column header and place check marks against each performance criteria that task addresses.

Observation Checklist

Tasks to be observed according to workplace/college/TAFE policy and procedures, relevant legislation and Codes of Practice	Yes	No	Comments/feedback
Identify known temperament, behaviour and level of education of horse prior to handling.
Identify current environmental factors that may affect horse senses and behaviour.
Observe and interpret horse body language and vocalisations to assess current horse behaviour.
Identify and assess risks associated with the particular activity, horse enclosure and horse.
Identify safe handling practices and confirm required organisational safety and emergency response procedures.
Identify horses to be caught by their features.
Check and confirm horses are aware of presence of handler prior to approach.
Move safely around any horses lying down without encroaching danger zones.
Catch an individually housed horse.
Catch a horse from within a group of horses.
Approach horses with halter and lead, using body language that minimises adverse horse reactions.
Fit halter and lead assuming safe body position in relation to horses.
Assume safe body position in relation to horses and use cues to start, stop and turn horse.
Lead horse, under control, on its own through doorways and gates.
Lead and stand horse single file in a group, and control to ensure horse and own safety.
Lead horse under control past others leading a horse.
Lead horse under control through, and out of a group of horses.
Secure horse to tie up point.
Check and confirm horse is aware of handler, move around avoiding danger zones, untie and lead horse.
Remove halter and lead, assuming safe body position in relation to horse.
Release horse into enclosure for a single horse; confirm security of enclosure before and after release.
Release horse into enclosure housing groups of horses; confirm security of enclosure before and after release.
Release horse as part of a group of handlers releasing horses; confirm security of enclosure before and after release.
Monitor horse behaviour during all handling activities and respond to adverse behaviour.
Complete on-the-spot risk assessment as hazards arise during activities to avoid injury to self, others and horse.
Use techniques to calm and control horse throughout activities and amend or cease activities as required.

Assessment Cover Sheet

SISOEQU001 - Handle horses

Assessment task 1: [title]

Student name:

Student ID:

I declare that the assessment tasks submitted for this unit are my own work.

Student signature:

Result: Competent Not yet competent

Feedback to student

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Assessor name:

Signature:

Date:

Assessment Record Sheet

SISOEQU001 - Handle horses

Student name:

Student ID:

Assessment task 1: [title] Result: Competent Not yet competent

(add lines for each task)

Feedback to student:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Overall assessment result: Competent Not yet competent

Assessor name:

Signature:

Date:

Student signature:

Date: