Pony Club tests open doorway to BHS examinations
The Pony Club is delighted to announce that a number of their Tests will now be recognised as suitable for direct entry to British Horse Society (BHS) and British Showjumping (BS) examinations, and those holding specified BHS and BS qualifications will be able to take Pony Club Tests at the level relevant to their experience.
The collaboration between the organisations means that eligible riders can use their existing qualifications to advance within another organisation’s training structure without having to start at the first level of the BHS Stage One, BS Five Star Performance Awards or The Pony Club D Test and repeating subject matter already covered, saving both time and money.
Jenny Cowen, Training Officer, said: “We are thrilled to be working in partnership with the BHS and BS to recognise Members’ previous knowledge and experience to enable better transferability between our training and exam systems.” Jenny continued “With ever increasing demands being placed on young peoples’ time, any support we can offer to make maximising their development easier is a really positive step.”
Gemma Portman, Development Programme Leader for the BHS, said the BHS recognises the value of Pony Club Tests. Gemma commented: “The new direct entry scheme provides the opportunity for those who have achieved Pony Club Tests to access BHS/EQL qualifications. We hope that those who start as Members take the opportunity for career progression through the BHS examination system.”
Justine Naylor, National Director of Sport for British Showjumping, is thrilled that the awards members have gained within The Pony Club and British Showjumping are now recognised within each of the organisations. Justine said: “It will now be easier for riders to progress through each of the award structures and develop their learning and understanding whilst avoiding duplication.” Justine went on to thank The Pony Club for their help in getting to this point.
If you would like more information, or if you would like to apply for direct entry to an exam, please visit The Pony Club’s website www.pcuk.org/tests_and_achievements/efficiency_tests to check eligibility.
Suzanne Ashton, Founder of Everything Horse (Est, 2012), has a BA Hons in Marketing Management and a Diploma in Equine Science. Suzanne has ridden and owned horses all her life and has twelve years of experience in marketing, writing, design, SEO, and website creation.