VCE VET Equine Studies study plan

Label a horse's blind spots, flight zone and pressure zones on a hand-drawn diagram and explain how each shapes a safe approach

List the five common horse behavioural indicators of fear or pain and describe the safe response to each

Identify ten workplace hazards in a stable or yard setting and match each to a control using the hierarchy of control

Demonstrate the correct sequence for catching, haltering and leading a horse, and write it out step by step

Define your state's duty-of-care obligations to workers, clients and horses in your own words

Describe safe restraint methods for common routine procedures and state when each is inappropriate

Explain how to tie a quick-release knot and list the safety rules for tying up

Outline emergency procedures for a loose horse, a fire and a human injury in the yard

Compare personal protective equipment requirements across handling, riding and yard tasks

Explain how horse vision, hearing and herd instinct affect handling decisions

Complete a written risk assessment for one routine task using a likelihood-by-consequence matrix

Explain the reporting and record-keeping requirements for workplace incidents and near misses

Describe how to safely handle and move a horse through a gateway, float or crush

Identify signs of stress or discomfort during restraint and state when to stop

Summarise the rules for working safely around horses alone versus in a team

Record and interpret the five vital signs used to assess horse health and state normal ranges

Describe how to perform a basic physical examination from head to tail and identify abnormalities

Outline first aid responses for wounds, colic, lameness and heat stress

Explain how behaviour changes can signal illness and how this links to safe handling

List the contents of a well-stocked equine first aid kit and explain the purpose of each item

Identify common equine diseases and parasites and state their key signs and prevention measures

Explain vaccination, worming and dental care schedules and why timing matters

Describe the digestive system of the horse and explain why small frequent feeds suit it

Evaluate the roles of forage, concentrates, water and salt in a balanced diet

Calculate a simple ration for a given horse and justify your choices

Explain how feed quality, storage and sudden dietary change affect horse health

Describe the watering requirements and methods for horses in different conditions

Compare fencing types for safety and suitability and list maintenance checks for each

Outline daily and seasonal property maintenance tasks and the risks of poor maintenance

Identify pasture management practices that support horse health and reduce injury risk

Demonstrate and describe a full grooming routine and explain the purpose of each step

Identify common pieces of gear and tack, state their purpose and describe basic cleaning and safety checks

Outline a daily routine care schedule for a stabled or paddocked horse

Map the main sectors and career pathways within the equine industry

Explain the roles and responsibilities of key equine industry bodies and how to find current information

Explain the communication, teamwork and customer service expectations of an equine workplace

Describe how to work ethically and legally, including animal welfare and confidentiality obligations

Build a personal career plan identifying two pathways, required skills and next steps

Complete a full practice exam under timed conditions and mark it against the criteria

Review and rewrite your weakest notes from the eight weeks into a condensed revision summary