Begin your shearing journey or develop and refine your shearing at a novice level. Whether you're a new or returning student, this course will teach you safe shearing techniques, the importance of animal welfare, and how to maintain your equipment.
Through a mixture of theory and practical course work, learn to:
Shear 5 sheep unassisted per hour
Catch, move and release sheep in line with animal welfare standards
Grind combs and cutters for machine shearing
Perform shearing-board duties to sort wool and skirt and roll fleece
Use the accepted communications signals in the shed when shearing
Observe differences between mobs of sheep and avoid contamination and second cuts
Gain practical experience and develop specialist skills that give you an advantage in the job market.
A nationally accredited Statement of Attainment
A pathway to further study in shearing
Practise shearing sheep to novice level
Knowledge of how to grind combs and cutters for machine shearing
Experience handling sheep in a safe and ethical manner and moving sheep into a shed to pen them up
Experience in shearing sheep and knowledge about animal welfare practices
Exposure to equipment maintenance and safe work practices
Techniques to make the job easier using more efficient movements to provide a high quality, fast shear
Some courses require evidence of previous experience or study before you can enrol
During your study you’ll need to provide your teacher with the following evidence:
That you are able to sheer 5 sheep unassisted per hour
To be prepared for this course, we recommend that you have:
A strong work ethic
A reasonable level of fitness to manage the physical demands of the role
The ability to work as part of a team and follow instructions
The ability to travel and spend time away from home
A willingness to work in remote areas
Vaccination against Q fever or other zoonotic diseases
TAFE NSW is committed to meeting the learning needs of every community. Meeting these needs can mean there are additional entry requirements at different campus locations. Check your preferred location for further requirements. If you need help preparing for study, contact us to find out how we can support you.
Our graduates go onto roles like: beginner shearer, novice shearer, wool handler, wool presser, sheep 'penner-up' and sheep farmhand.
Take your study further with other courses offered at TAFE NSW:
Begin here to gain experience and confidence in this study area.
The Statement of Attainment in Novice Sheep Shearing does not have any pre-requisite courses.
Advance your skills to take your career to the next level
Strengthen your expertise and gain specialist skills to expand your employability.
The Statement of Attainment in Novice Sheep Shearing does not have any related courses.
At TAFE NSW, we recognise your previous study and work experience. You can apply for recognition of prior learning or a credit transfer with any of our courses. If you're successful you'll get your qualification faster.
Core units are central to the job outcomes of a particular industry or occupation. These are the units industry has agreed are essential to be capable and qualified at a particular study level.
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TAFE NSW Disability Support Service
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TAFE NSW Aboriginal Support; Learner support (ABE)
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