Pony Club Tests are progressive and are designed to help members increase their knowledge and skills as they work towards each level, beginning with E Test for our youngest members and finishing with A Test, which is internationally recognised and only achieved by a handful of members nationally each year.
From C+ upwards the Tests map across to BHS (British Horse Society) and are usually organised at Area level.
The Test Levels
The Pony Club Training structure encourages members to take Tests which enables them to learn progressively about horse and pony care and riding.
E Test – recommended minimum age 4.
It involves 1 rally including the Test. This is intended to be an encouraging introduction to the Test format.
Mini Road Rider Badge – 1 rally including the Test.
D Test – recommended minimum age 8.
It involves a minimum of 2 ridden & 2 theory rallies plus Mock & Test.
D+ Test – recommended minimum age 10.
It involves a minimum of 2 ridden & 2 theory rallies plus Mock & Test.
Main Road Rider Badge – 2 x 2 hr rallies including the Test
C Test – recommended minimum age 11. This is a big step up from D+ with a commitment to attend 6 – 8 theory & ridden rallies plus Mock before the Test. The Main Road Rider Badge must also be achieved before taking the C Test.
C+ Test Riding & Care (can be taken separately) – recommended minimum age is 13. A commitment to attend at least 10 – 12 theory & ridden rallies plus Mock & Test depending on abilities.
At this level members are expected to work independently outside of rallies and learn the theory to a high standard. The C+ Test also includes the Spurs Test so a secure lower leg is essential. C+ is tested by external examiners approved by Area and provides direct entry to BHS Stage 2.
B Test Riding & Care (can be taken separately) – minimum age is 14 although it is recommended that this is taken after GCSEs.
At this level you can start the coach pathway or make a direct entry to BHS Stage 3. This level is also internationally recognised so can help with UCAS points and job applications. It is a serious undertaking, like a GCSE, and will take a year or more. It relies on hard work and members are expected to work independently outside of rallies in order to reach the required level. It also requires access to a suitable horse. Tests are run by Area 9 with candidates tested by external examiners. DC approval is required to enter.
The following Tests are run by Area 9 and continue the pathway to A Test:
The Spurs Test – organised by Area 9 & can be entered after completing approved training & with DC approval needed.
The Lunge Test – Minimum age is 16+ Test dates are run by Area 9. DC approval required to enter.
B+ Test – minimum age is 16+ Training & Test dates run by Area 9. DC approval is required to enter
B Test provides direct entry to BHS Stage 4 qualification at age 18.
AH Test – minimum age is 16+ -Training & Test dates run by Area 9. DC approval is required to enter
AH Test provides direct entry to BHS Stage 5 qualification at age 18.
A Test – recommended age 18+ Training & Test dates run at Area & Nationally. DC approval is required to enter.
A Test provides direct entry to BHS Stage 5 qualification.
What to Wear
E, D, D+ Test: Berkeley polo shirt or Tweed Jacket, shirt and tie. Beige jodhpurs, long boots (brown or black) Hat, hairnet, gloves.
C Test & above: Tweed Jacket, shirt and tie or Stock, beige jodhpurs, long boots (brown or black) Hat, hairnet, gloves.
Ponies must be clean with manes and tails plaited.
We offer Mock Tests from D test and above to check that members are ready to take the Test and to provide a taster of what a Test is like so that the actual Test is a familiar environment.
Everyone learns in different ways, it is well worth letting us know if you wish to complete a Reasonable Adjustment form for your child. It means we can provide the best outcomes for your child.