OverviewAbout this course
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.
OutcomesWhat you'll gain
Learning outcomes
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
Course outcomes
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
SuitabilityIs this course right for you?
Entry requirements
Some courses require evidence of previous experience or study before you can enrol
- There are no entry requirements for this qualification. You can enrol today.
Completion requirements
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
Entry recommendations
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.
PathwaysFuture career and study options
Career pathways
Our graduates go onto roles like: beginner shearer, novice shearer, wool handler, wool presser, sheep 'penner-up' and sheep farmhand.
Study pathways
Take your study further with other courses offered at TAFE NSW:
Previous study0 Courses
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.
Further study1 Course
Advance your skills to take your career to the next level
Related study1 Course
Strengthen your expertise and gain specialist skills to expand your employability.
Your experience counts
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.
UnitsUnits taught in this course
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.
Shear sheep to novice levelAHCSHG203
Grind combs and cutters for machine shearingAHCSHG205
Pen sheepAHCWOL201
TAFE NSW servicesFacilities and support
TAFE NSW provides support services across all campus locations and online. Whatever your needs or circumstances, we have the people, resources, counselling and facilities to support you in focusing on your studies.
TAFE NSW Disability Support Service
TAFE NSW Language, Literacy and Numeracy (LLN) support
TAFE NSW Aboriginal Support; Learner support (ABE)
TAFE NSW Careers, Counselling and Pathways Service
TAFE NSW Libraries
Scholarship programs – be supported as you explore your talents and fulfil your potential
Read&Write literacy and study support software is available free for all TAFE NSW students to use while studying on campus and at home
LinkedIn Learning – an online resource which offers innovative courses and tutorials to improve your personal and professional skills
Student associations – get social with our student community