Riding Skill Development – Preparation for BHS Stages 1 and 2

In a nutshell

This course is the perfect starting point if you're an equine enthusiast looking to develop your riding and horse care skills. Over 10 weeks you'll cover all practical and theory based aspects required to prepare for the British Horse Society (BHS) Stage 1 and 2 qualifications.

This course is for...

...passionate horse owners looking to develop their skills

...those looking to sit British Horse Society (BHS) Stages 1 and 2 examinations

...those considering or wanting to start a career in the equine industry

Course content

You'll develop a variety of practical skills including:

• a basic riding position
• riding school movements at walk, trot and canter
• riding without stirrups
• working in a light seat
• pole work

As the course progresses you will develop further skills on the flat and over fences.

You'll also develop a broad knowledge of horse care including:

• handling skills
• horse health
• feeding
• basic stable management
• first aid for horses
• work programmes and fittening
• presenting horses
• fitting tack
• travelling horses safely

You'll be expected to participate in both practical riding and care sessions, and on completion will receive a Coleg Gwent certificate.

To further expand your knowledge you could progress on to Riding Skill Development, Preparation for BHS Stage 3.

Entry Requirements

While there are no formal entry requirements you should have adequate riding skills, including the ability to walk, trot and canter in balance with the horse.

Learners should be at least 16 years of age and will be expected to attend a riding assessment before commencing the course.

Additional information

This course is run by one of our BHS qualified instructors and runs on a Monday evening, 6pm - 9pm.

You'll require a correctly fitted riding hat that meets current safety standards, riding boots, jodhpurs, gloves and a riding crop.

Please note that this course is designed to prepare learners for the BHS Stage 1 and 2 qualifications, however this course does not include exam entry.