Farrier Career in South Africa
Explore the official OFO occupation, common tasks, specialisations and approved South African qualification pathways.
OFO Code2021-684902
Trade occupationYes
Green occupationNo
Related qualifications0
Occupation overview
Inspects, trims and shapes horses’ hooves, and forms, fits and nails horseshoes.
What does a Farrier do?
A farrier cares for horses’ feet to support their comfort, balance and movement. The work involves inspecting hooves, trimming and shaping them carefully, and forming, fitting and securing horseshoes for individual horses.
How to become a Farrier in South Africa
- Learn about horse care, hoof structure, basic animal handling and farriery practices through suitable practical training or supervised experience.
- Build practical skill in inspecting, trimming and shaping hooves, and in making, fitting and nailing horseshoes safely.
- Gain experience working with horses under the guidance of an experienced farrier or suitable training provider.
- Confirm current qualification, provider and assessment requirements with an accredited provider or the relevant official body before enrolling or offering services.
Edupstairs Preparation Guidance
Farriery is a hands-on trade requiring close work with horses, careful observation and physical stamina. Develop safe horse-handling habits and seek supervised practical experience. Training routes and current assessment arrangements should be verified before starting.
Useful school subjects
- Life Sciences
- Physical Sciences
- Mathematics
- Mathematical Literacy
Skills that may help
- Horse handling and animal-care awareness
- Careful observation of hoof condition
- Manual dexterity and hand-tool use
- Accuracy when trimming, shaping and fitting horseshoes
- Physical stamina and balance
- Patience and calm communication around animals
- Practical problem-solving
- Commitment to safe working practices