Application
This unit describes the performance outcomes, skills and knowledge required to assess horses for their potential to perform effectively in equestrian sport or recreational riding programs. It requires a fundamental knowledge of horse anatomy and physiology and the impacts of conformation on horse performance.
This unit applies to a range of organisations involved in equestrian sport, instructional and recreational riding programs. It applies to experienced senior staff who work autonomously but in consultation with others to acquire, condition and train horses for programs. This can include trainers, guides, trail bosses, instructors and coaches.
No occupational licensing, certification or specific legislative requirements apply to this unit at the time of publication.
Elements and Performance Criteria
ELEMENTS | PERFORMANCECRITERIA |
Elements describe the essential outcomes | Performance criteria describe the performance needed to demonstrate achievement of the element. |
1. Identify the impact of conformation on horse performance. | 1.1. Identify the functions of the respiratory, circulatory, musculoskeletal, digestive, nervous and reproductive systems in horse performance. 1.2. Identify connection between horse conformation, performance and soundness. |
2. Assess horse suitability for intended use. | 2.1. Identify intended sport or recreational use and performance requirements of horses. 2.2. Use safe practices and follow organisational safety procedures during horse assessment to avoid injury to self, others and horse. 2.3. Examine horses for functional conformation and observe movement. 2.4. Identify functional conformation faults and potential to affect performance of horses. 2.5. Assess suitability of individual horses for different sport or recreational uses according to their conformation and movement. 2.6. Evaluate and complete written reports on performance potential for intended sport or recreational use. |
Foundation Skills
Foundation skills essential to performance in this unit, but not explicit in the performance criteria are listed here, along with a brief context statement. | |
SKILLS | DESCRIPTION |
Reading skills to: | interpret detailed familiar organisational procedures for assessment of horse performance. |
Writing skills to: | develop reports on horse assessments containing factual and conceptual information using correct terminology to describe anatomy, physiology and condition. |
Oral communication skills to: | provide unambiguous descriptions of horse conformation issues using complex anatomical and physiological terminology. |
Sectors
Outdoor Recreation
Competency Field
Equine