Course details

New Zealand Certificate in Equine Skills (Sporthorse Groom) (Level 4)
NZQF Level 4

About the course

Take your equine skills to the next level with the NZ Certificate in Equine Skills (Sporthorse Groom) (Level 4) at Telford – the experts in rural education. Designed for experienced riders, this hands-on programme equips you with the expertise to care for, exercise, and train sporthorses at a professional level. Gain industry-recognised skills in horse management, health, performance, and event preparation, setting you on the path to a rewarding career as a senior sporthorse groom or stable foreman. Join us and step into the exciting world of equestrian sports with confidence.

You will learn about the health, care, stabling, and preparation of horses for performance events. You will also learn about your role, and how to work with others in the  performance horse industry. 

  • 22 stables and indoor arena
  • Round pen, wash bays and tack room
  • Purpose-built classroom, feed room, vet crush and stable lab

Entry requirements

Entry requirements

  • Must be 16 years of age at time of course commencement.
  • A recognised, relevant NQF Level 3 qualification or NCEA level 2.
  • Expressed interest in working in the sport horse sector.
  • Physical ability to work safely around horses and machinery.
  • Have a willingness to meet the attendance and academic requirements of the programme.
  • All applicants need to provide evidence of riding ability through video submission. Riders will need to be able to rise to a trot and canter.

Please contact Telford for further information.

Language Requirements

All applicants (international and domestic) for whom English or te reo Māori is not a first language need to provide evidence that they have the necessary English language proficiency required for the programme.

International applicants must provide evidence that they have the necessary English language proficiency required for the Programme as outlined in the table for internationally recognised English proficiency outcomes for international learners from one test taken in the preceding two years, or an equivalent described in NZQA Rules and on Delivery Site English Language Requirements for International Ākonga webpage.

All applicants must provide evidence that they have the necessary language literacy proficiency required for the Programme as demonstrated by the equivalence of:

  • 10 NCEA literacy credits at Level 2 or above, made up of:
  • 5 credits in reading
  • 5 credits in writing

Applicants who are unable to provide evidence of the above may be required to demonstrate capability using an approved proficiency test or an equivalent described in NZQA Rules.

International applicants must provide evidence that they have the necessary English language proficiency required for the Programme as outlined in the table for internationally recognised English proficiency outcomes for international students from one test taken in the preceding two years, or an equivalent described in NZQA Rules and on Delivery Site English Language Requirements for International Ākonga webpage.

*This course is not available to international students.

About the provider

Join one of New Zealand's top agricultural training providers and get hands-on experience that sets you up for success in the industry.

At Telford, we offer a hands-on learning experience like no other, preparing you for the challenges and rewards of the agricultural sector. Whether you’re interested in farming, equine, or land-based trades, our industry-leading courses provide you with the skills and real-world experience to stand out. With 2026 enrolments now open, take the first step toward a rewarding career by joining one of New Zealand’s top agricultural training providers. Apply today and start shaping your future!

  • 856 hectares of active farmland
  • Hands-on Practical Training & Learning
  • Blended Delivery and On-Campus Courses

Video

External links