New qualification allows helpers to shine
| New qualification allows helpers to shine A new qualification launched by The British Horse Society will recognise the skills of riding school helpers. The Riding School Assistant Certificate of Competence will help mark the personal progress of successful candidates while offering the client an assurance that they are in safe and experienced hands. |  |
The syllabus tests the all round ability of candidates to help in a riding school, and includes basic grooming; tacking up and un-tacking a horse correctly; assisting riders to mount, alter stirrups and hold their reins; and how to correctly lead a mounted client on a horse or pony in walk and trot.
Anyone can apply to take the exam once they have reached 14 years of age. Young rider Amy Liddle (14) from Northumberland is the first person to attain the certificate.
Claire Nixon BHSII from Swinhoe Farm Riding Centre in Northumberland saw Amy through the process. She said: "We have found this certificate very useful as it shows Amy's knowledge and practical skills are at the required level, which has given her confidence in assisting where necessary. Amy is over the moon to be the first candidate in the country to pass this certificate."
Chris Doran, BHS Senior Executive, Approvals, believes the certificate is especially valuable to the many young people who assist in BHS approved riding schools: "For so long the experience gained by assisting at their local riding school has helped young people facilitate their passion for riding. The introduction of this certificate gives parents peace of mind in knowing that their child is properly equipped for the tasks they may be required to perform.
"We hope the certificate will be the goal for anyone, of any age, who assists in a riding school in line with the Society's continued aim to provide the highest standards in British Horse Society Approved establishments."
Added on: 11/05/10.
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