CERTIFICATE IN ADVANCED FARRIER TRAINING
DESCRIPTION
This program prepares students to work competently as qualified farriers. Students may complete one or two training blocks, leave the program to gain work experience, and return to finish the remainder of the program. The program aims to meet the continuing demand for qualified farriers in BC. For further information on this program, please visit our Trades website at www.kwantlen.ca/trades
CAREER OPPORTUNITIES
This is a demanding occupation and a large measure of individual initiative is required to make it a success. The rewards of being self-employed, meeting people and doing a meaningful and satisfying job are significant. Financial remuneration is comparable to many other trades.
Students who complete the Basic Level of the program will be able to assist a qualified farrier in minor tasks. Those who complete the Intermediate Level will be able to undertake most tasks of the trade under the close supervision of a qualified farrier. Those who complete the Advanced Level will be able to perform most jobs with minimal supervision. Students who complete all three levels of the program may be able to operate independently and become self-employed. However, until graduates have had several years experience in the trade, they will probably need to refer complicated tasks to farriers with more experience.
STUDENT PROFILE
Students come to this nine-month program from all over BC and from other parts of North America. They have had experience working with horses, and have decided to become self-employed farriers. They are of all ages; some are recent high school graduates, while others plan to make this trade a second career. Both women and men have succeeded in the program and in this trade.
Physical fitness, strong knees and a healthy back are essential for a successful career in this trade. Students who may have concerns with the physical, intellectual or emotional demands of this program should contact the Program Coordinator at 604.598.6177 to discuss required skills and competencies and a Disability Advisor at 604.599.3233 to ensure appropriate accommodations can be arranged.
The program accommodates a wide range of students, from those just entering the trade to those with several years of experience who wish to upgrade their skills and knowledge. With the permission of the instructor, experienced farriers may also enter the program for short periods to hone and extend their skills and knowledge.
ENTRANCE REQUIREMENTS
- Students must meet either the regular student admission category or the mature student admission category
- Students must submit two references verifying experience in handling horses
CONTENT
This nine-month program is offered in three blocks of three months each. The course work for each block is divided into three levels: Basic, Intermediate, and Advanced. Students may enter the program at any level in September, January or April. Thus each class will contain students at each of the three levels. The program includes the following courses:
- Basic Level
- Intermediate Level
- Advanced Level
Special Equipment
Students pay approximately $1500.00 for tools, which must be purchased by the end of the first week of classes. A list of supplies will be provided.
Students will require appropriate steel-toed safety boots, safety glasses, hearing protection, and current tetanus immunization.
GRADUATION
Upon successful completion of this program, students are awarded a Certificate in Advanced Farrier Training.