This is the traditional route for career students, with NVQ being an alternative. BHS qualifications are achieved through examinations rather than on-going assessment and if teaching is your ambition BHS qualification are recognised throughout the industry. The BHS is accepted world wide as the leading organisation in equine education and training. BHS examinations are held at approved examination centres, candidates must be a member of the British Horse Society to which examination fees are paid.

Qualifications are examined in 2 main sections: Riding and Horse Knowledge and Care

Riding:  Flat work only, including the use of ground poles and light seat       

Horse Knowledge & Care:  Basic horse husbandry, day to day care of the horse and equipment.

After the course & Progression

Students would be able to take BHS Stage 1. Progress to BHS Stage 2  and Preliminary Teaching Certificate provided both sections of Stage 1 are held.

Riding:   Flat work and jumping a course of  small show jumps

Horse Knowledge & Care:  Daily routine for several horses including clipping and plaiting, feeding programmes, horse health and lungeing.

After the course & Progression

Students would be able to take BHS Stage 2.  Progress to BHS Stage 3 course and Preliminary Teaching Certificate.
Students holding BHS Stage 1 & 2 can take the Preliminary Teaching Certificate.
 

Riding:  Flat work and jumping a course of show jumps and cross country  fences

Horse Knowledge & Care: Care of the competition horse, feeding and fittening, tack for variety of disciplines, anatomy and physiology, minor ailments and lungeing.

After the course & Progression

Students would be able to take BHS Stage 3.  Progress to BHS Stage 4 & Intermediate Teaching Certificate if  Preliminary  Instructors qualification is held.
 

This course prepares students for the Preliminary Teaching Certificate. The candidate has to be able to teach lead rein, lunge and group lessons and deliver a 5 minute lecturette. The course content involves theory sessions on general teaching skills and equitation, practical work for all aspects of the examination. Students are encouraged to teach clients as part of the ‘hands on’ experience, all with tutor support.

After the course & progression

Students would be able to take Preliminary Teaching Certificate

Progress to BHS Stage 4 and Intermediate Teaching Certificate providing BHS Assistant Instructors Certificate is held.