International Horse College - Equine Industry Careers RTO: 31352

02/09/2026

Horse Trivia Time!

Ever wonder how much sleep your horse actually gets? It might be less than you think.

A 2025 study on group-housed horses found they averaged just 10 to 15 minutes of lying down per day — far below the 23 to 200+ minutes reported in other research. Researchers point to hard feeding areas and a lack of soft, sandy resting spots as likely reasons horses stay on their feet.

Here's why that matters: horses can only enter REM sleep while lying down. Not enough lying time means not enough deep rest, which can affect their health and behavior over time.

The takeaway? Soft footing and a comfortable place to rest aren't extras, they're essential to your horse's wellbeing.

Learn more: www.internationalhorsecollege.com

Source: https://journals.plos.org/plosone/article?id=10.1371%2Fjournal.pone.032592

01/09/2026

The horse who tries is a gift.

The horse who offers without being forced. The horse who seeks the contact. The horse who looks for the answer. The horse who wants to please.

That willingness is not guaranteed. It must be protected. Nurtured. Respected.

Because when the horse decides to stop trying, you will know. The ears go quiet. The step goes flat. The spark goes missing.

And you will realize what you had. After it is gone.

Do not let it get to that point. Praise the effort. Release the pressure. End on a good note. Let the horse know that their try matters. Because it does.

Learn more:
https://www.internationalhorsecollege.com/

01/09/2026

What does Integrity mean? 🤔

Integrity in sport means that athletes, supporters and fans can participate and celebrate sport, confident in the knowledge that they are part of a safe, ethical and inclusive environment. 🙌

To kick off Integrity & Wellbeing Month at Equestrian Australia, we invite all members to complete our national survey on Integrity Awareness and Education.

🔗 Complete the survey here: https://brnw.ch/21x5kHa

31/08/2026

The numbers don't lie 📊

20+ countries. 1,000+qualifications. 400,000+ podcast downloads.

Since 2001, we've been helping people build real careers in the horse industry, flexible, online, and nationally accredited.

Ready to be part of the next 1,000?

Contact us!

📞 07 3102 5498
🌐 internationalhorsecollege.com

Enquire today and find the right course for you.

30/08/2026

Horse Riding Instructor Success Tip #4: Know How to Match a Horse to a New Rider

Matching the right horse to the right rider is an important part of being a successful riding instructor. A good instructor considers the rider’s experience, confidence, ability and goals when choosing a suitable horse.

The right match can help beginners feel safer, build confidence and develop good riding habits from the start.

At the International Horse College, our government-accredited pathway takes you from Certificate III through to the Equestrian Coaching Diploma, giving you the skills and confidence to coach professionally.

With the Coaching Diploma, you can:
• Gain a recognised instructor qualification
• Increase your career opportunities and earning potential
• Build credibility with clients and employers
• Learn to coach safely and effectively
• Study online at your own pace, with a fast Track option that can be completed in as little as 3 months.

Invest in your future and become the instructor riders trust.

Learn more: https://www.internationalhorsecollege.com/equestrian-coaching-diploma/

29/08/2026

What support do I get if I'm studying from interstate?

Distance doesn't mean alone. Here's the support that comes with your enrolment:

One-on-one phone tutorials — book them whenever you need guidance

Dedicated student support team reachable by phone and email

Weekly training plans keep you on track without locking you to a strict timetable

Many online assessments give instant results — no waiting on a teacher

You study from your state. We support you like you're right next door.

👉 Explore our courses: https://www.internationalhorsecollege.com/courses/
📞 Chat with our team: https://www.internationalhorsecollege.com/contact-us/

28/08/2026

Did you know a correctly fitted bridle can make a big difference to your horse’s comfort and safety?

A bridle with a bit can provide more control than a halter when needed, but it should always fit the horse correctly.

Every part of the bridle has a role to play, from the headpiece and browband to the noseband, throat latch, reins and bit.

A good fit is important. As a general guide, you should be able to fit approximately:

• 4 fingers between the horse’s jaw and the throat latch
• 2 fingers between the nose and the noseband
• 2 fingers between the brow and the browband

Understanding how your horse’s tack should fit is an important part of good horsemanship and safe horse handling.

📚 Enrol today and build the practical knowledge and skills you need for a future in the horse industry.

internationalhorsecollege.com

27/08/2026

Common cues when handling horses.

26/08/2026

26/08/2026

Different Ways to Reward a Horse

Horses learn largely through association, connecting an action with a consequence. That’s why the right reward at the right time can make a big difference in training.

• Positive reinforcement can include verbal praise, patting, stroking, scratching, rest breaks, a longer rein or food treats.

• Food treats should be used carefully, as they can sometimes encourage pushy or nippy behaviour.

Negative reinforcement involves removing pressure when the horse responds correctly. For example, releasing rein, leg or halter pressure immediately after the horse makes the desired response helps the horse understand what you are asking.

• Reward the tiniest correct attempt. Timing is key.

Non-specific rewards such as turnout, playtime, grooming or mental breaks can also support a horse’s positive attitude and strengthen the relationship between horse and handler.

Punishment is generally less effective than reinforcement. Good training focuses on clear communication, consistency, correct timing and rewarding positive effort.

🐴 Want to develop your skills and knowledge in horse care and handling?

Enrol with International Horse College and take the next step towards a rewarding career with horses.