Edition 45, June 2007

Racing for recognition of prior learning in NT

For the most part you do not require a qualification to work in the racing industry. Racehorse trainers learn the craft by working as stablehands and strappers for established trainers before taking out a training licence for themselves.

For most jockeys it is a case of undertaking an apprenticeship with a trainer and then over a number of years building up their race riding experience.

However, in the Northern Territory a ruling passed by the Principle Race Club Board is going to have a significant impact on training in the Northern Territory racing industry.

From 1 July 2008 all licence holders will be required to have a relevant national qualification.  This poses a significant challenge for the industry on how to get a larger number of its members with no qualifications suitably qualified by that time.

The solution has been the establishment of a recognition of prior learning program. Through Build Skills NT, a Northern Territory Government initiative to up-skill or re-skill workers with appropriate qualifications and licences, the program is helping the Northern Territory racing industry develop a pool of qualified thoroughbred trainers and jockeys.

This program is the result of a partnership between CHARTTES Training Advisory Council and the TAFE New South Wales Western Institute. It is being funded by the Northern Territory Department of Employment, Education and Training.

CHARTTES Training Advisory Council Project Manager Marcia Kelly says this program was the result of the industry's need for skilled and qualified trainers and jockeys.

'This skill recognition program will support the Race Club's ruling and allow racing to continue to enjoy strong growth,' Ms Kelly says.

'This program will provide a benchmark for training in the Territory and set industry standards for other states in Australia to follow.'

While Thoroughbred Racing NT is rolling out the training program across the Territory to uniform race standards, the certification is not yet an Australia-wide industry requirement.

TAFE New South Wales Western Institute has been appointed as the preferred registered training organisation and assessor. Nearly 70 participants from Darwin and Alice Springs racing communities have registered to participate in the program, in two streams:

Racehorse trainers currently require a licence in the Northern Territory to become a trainer. However, no formal training is required, which is a cause for concern from an occupational health and safety and regulatory compliance perspective.

Jockeys usually work independently and contract out their riding services on a daily basis. Many jockeys have been working in the racing industry for a long period of time without gaining any formal qualifications. This program will recognise these jockeys' existing skills and also provide up-skilling opportunities.

All program participants will be assessed against the relevant Certificate IV racing qualifications from the Racing Training Package. Those who are assessed as competent will be awarded the Certificate IV in Racing (Thoroughbred Owner Trainer) (RGR40102) or Certificate IV in Racing (Jockey) (RGR40202).

For more information contact Marcia Kelly, CHARTTES Training Advisory Council, on 08 8941 1956, projects@charttes.com.au or visit www.charttes.com.au

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