Beechworth students tour GOTAFE’s National Equine Centre

Pictured: GOTAFE Trainer Rhonda McCallum with Beechworth Secondary Students Matilda, Ayla and Keely and ‘Jarvis’.

Sixteen students from Beechworth Secondary School toured GOTAFE’s National Centre for Equine Education in Wangaratta last week, to learn about study pathways and career opportunities in the equine industry.

The students, aged 12 to 17, also met GOTAFE trainers and explored the facilities at Wangaratta’s Regional Study Centre.

GOTAFE interim executive director of education Louise Pearce said: “The students toured our purpose-built equine facilities and stables, talked with, and learnt from, our trainers about horse health and horse care and were given an insight into studying equine with GOTAFE.

“We offer Certificate II in Equine Studies for Secondary School students through our VET in Schools program where they gain introductory, hands-on practical skills that set them up for a career in the equine industry.

“GOTAFE trainer Rhonda McCallum encouraged the students to think broadly about the careers available in equine, from event management for horse events to stable hands and veterinary nursing.”

Beechworth Secondary School teacher Laureen Barnard approached GOTAFE with the idea of the students visiting GOTAFE after she recognised the students had an interest in equine studies.

“A number of students showed an interest in learning more about horses, so I introduced an elective in equine studies,” she said.

“We have had a number of experts come to speak to the students and so when the students expressed an interest to learn about careers in the industry, I contacted GOTAFE.”

Year 7 student Matilda said: “I liked the tour of the facilities, the hands-on activity and taking photos of the horses. I thought studying equine would be fun and I was right.”

GOTAFE has various equine courses on offer and more information is available at www.gotafe.vic.edu.au