New training for equine racing business owners
15 May 2025
Equine racing business owners can ensure they are up to play with the latest knowledge, rules and regulations, as part of a new training programme launched by Primary ITO.
Image supplied by New Zealand Thoroughbred Racing
The New Zealand Certificate in Equine Racing – Assistant Trainer (Level 4) provides essential knowledge for people who are managing thoroughbred racehorses and overseeing staff in racing stables. The programme is based on-job, and covers topics including staff management, HR practices, health and safety in the workplace, care of thoroughbreds, rules of racing, media and NZ racing processes. It takes 20 months to complete.
Primary ITO worked closely with governing body New Zealand Thoroughbred Racing (NZTR) to design and develop the training programme, which is a prerequisite for individuals who are applying for a Class A Trainers Licence.
Vicki Eggers, Primary ITO sector manager for equine, says learners will benefit from quality resources and the support of a training adviser and other experts.
“We are delighted to have this programme available for industry. It is a fantastic addition to our growing suite of equine qualifications, and its development reflects our close working relationship with NZTR.”
Image supplied by New Zealand Thoroughbred Racing
Amy Johnson, head of education, training and recruitment at NZTR, says this new training programme will equip individuals to step up into a leadership role and run a business.
Amy says the relationship NZTR has with Primary ITO provides the ability to design training programmes like this one to meet industry needs.
“We are trying to align with international standards, so it is very valuable to us to have a programme like this to roll out. Vicki and the team at Primary ITO have been incredible in supporting the development of this programme – it’s a huge piece of work for us and now we’ve got it up and running, with the whole team behind it.”
Find information about the new programme here.