Area 5 Training Update

January 2026

A Strong Start to 2026

Area 5 has launched into the new year with great energy and participation. With competitions quieter and many senior members about to head into university, college, or exam season, January provided an ideal moment to concentrate on lunging.

Our lunge training sessions were fully booked, with fantastic feedback from all who attended. It’s been a confident start to our 2026 training programme and a positive sign of the enthusiasm across the area.

Coming Soon: Online Training

💻 Zoom Training Series – Begins 9th February 2026

We are excited to introduce a new cycle of online Zoom sessions covering key elements of the B Test syllabus.
Perfect for C+ level members and above, these sessions offer:

Expert-led content
Interactive learning from home
Topic‑focused sessions you can book individually
Open access to members from all areas so get booking!

Full booking details and more information can be found on the Area 5 website.

https://branches.pcuk.org/area5/news/area-5-zoom-training-series-upcoming-dates-and-booking-details-announced/

AH Test Training – Industry days

March brings the start of our AH Test Training Programme, which includes two exceptional Industry Days:

📍 Day 1 – Twemlows Stud

A day dedicated to the AH Breeding Modules.
Lunch is included for all attendees.

Full booking details and more information can be found on the Area 5 website.

https://branches.pcuk.org/area5/news/area-5-ah-practical-training-31-03-26/

📍 Day 2 – Training with International Event Rider Michael Owen

Hosted at the yard of Michael Owen, this afternoon focuses on modules from the AH syllabus, including feeding, fitness, and competition horse management.

Full booking details and more information can be found on the Area 5 website.

https://branches.pcuk.org/area5/news/area-5-ah-and-b-practical-training-michael-owen-06-01-26/

Tests and Guidelines for 2026

A full list of Area 5 test dates for 2026 can be found on the Area 5 website. Please note closing dates are 1 month from the date to allow time to book and confirm the assessors and venues required.

Full booking details and more information can be found on the Area 5 website.

C+ Test and Spur Test Updates

As agreed last year:

Branches and centres may organise their own C+ and Spur Tests.
All relevant Pony Club guidelines to be followed.
The Area Representative must be involved before the test is booked, to support and oversee the process.
Area 5 will continue to run additional C+ Tests to support smaller branches and improve access for all (dates on the test page above).

C+ Test guidance for organisers is available in the Guide to Pony Club Training. Page 22&23

Spur Test national organisers guidance available in the resource hub.

https://resources.pcuk.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/National-Guidelines-Organisation-of-The-Spurs-Test-v.3.pdf

Area 5 Spur Test nomination trial

Area 5 will run several Area‑organised Spur Tests this year.
Members who wish to take part should complete the nomination form on the Area 5 website—
participation will be confirmed with the DC/proprietor, and then members will be offered tests dates.

This system is also being trialled in another area and will help us understand the demand and the best geographical locations for future tests

Area 5 – Spurs test expression of interest …

Step 1&2 Intro to Coaching Mentoring Sessions

Our Step course organiser Elspeth Carr will be coordinating some mentoring sessions for training coaches that have attended Area 5 courses in the last 2 years. Members will be invited by email to come together to reflect on their progress, coaching opportunities, challenges, and future development needs.

Any questions, help, guidance, comments or feedback please email: Katy Powell – training.area5@pcuk.org