Stage 1

• 14+ years
• Anyone looking to begin a career in equestrianism
• Anyone aspiring to gain Stage 2 Complete Horsemanship 
• Anyone aspiring to have a leading equestrian coaching career

• A minimum age of 13 years
• BHS Silver Candidate Membership or Gold Membership. International Students to be Overseas Full or Overseas E-Members.  

View our assessment fees.

You will be assessed on the following learning outcomes:

• Know about the responsibilities of working on the stable yard
• Be able to maintain a clean stable
• Be able to carry out routine grooming tasks
• Be able to describe horses and know about horse behaviour and health
• Be able to use rugs appropriately
• Be able to tack up and un-tack
• Be able to handle a horse
• Be able to feed and water a horse

Find out more about Stage 1 Care here.

You will be assessed on the following learning outcomes:

• Be able to position a horse for mounting
• Be able to mount and dismount from a horse
• Be able to ride horses in walk, trot and canter under supervision

Find out more about Stage 1 Ride here.

You will be assessed on the following learning outcomes:

• Identify the rules in the Highway Code specific to horse riders
• Know how to ride out safely
• Be able to ride a horse in an enclosed area and out on the road

Find out more about Ride Safe Award here.

Find an assessment near you and then contact the Education team to book.

Please ensure you book in plenty of time. The assessment will close for bookings two weeks prior to taking place.

We will always do our best to accommodate your preference for an assessment. However, the venue and date are not confirmed until payment is taken and you have received your written confirmation.

Re-sitting your assessment

If you have been unsuccessful on your first assessment, we encourage you to call us to book a re-sit.

Of course, we will also answer any questions you may have and provide you with feedback at this stage. You may have been successful against some, but not all of the assessment criteria, in which case we can just assess you on the sections on which you were not so strong.

All applicants are encouraged to undertake practical training at a BHS Approved Centre or with a BHS Accredited Professional Coach to ensure you are ready for your assessment.

Find your nearest BHS Approved Centre.

Find a BHS Accredited Professional Coach near you.