Rider Certificates

Throughout their Pony Club career, riders are encouraged to undertake various efficiency tests according to their age and ability – commencing with the basic ‘E’ Certificate through to the ‘A’ Certificate.

These certificates aim to encourage the interest and improvement in knowledge of its members. They are viewed as a measure of a rider’s progress in their overall proficiency. In working for them, riders acquire valuable knowledge and skills, which enhance their riding experience.

A copy of the Pony Club Australia Syllabus of Instruction should be obtained by each member as this contains all information relating to the requirements for tests. The NSW book ‘Riding’ is also an excellent reference manual for riders and parents as it contains information concerning all aspects of riding and horse care. These can be purchased through the NSW State Office here.

The following certificates are available to members:

E CERTIFICATE

Candidates have reasonable control of their ponies at the walk and trot. Some help may be given, such as allowing ponies to work in company. Minimal help can be given with other tasks.

D CERTIFICATE

Elementary knowledge of grooming, feeding and general care of the horse. Basic riding ability.

D STAR CERTIFICATE

Further knowledge of grooming, feeding, care of horses, parts of the horse. More capable riding ability.

C CERTIFICATE

Independent seat required, with correct aids and a degree of competence in other aspects of riding. General knowledge of horse care and parts of the horse.

C STAR CERTIFICATE

Active riding skills at a fast pace, using a correct, strong seat, well established in forward jumping position. Good horse knowledge.

K CERTIFICATE

Action activities and a 40km ride. The K certificate is a non-jumping alternative to the C* Certificate.

B CERTIFICATE

Active, capable rider who understands the aids thoroughly and can apply them appropriately.

A CERTIFICATE

Strong rider able to ride a variety of mounts. High standard of horsemanship and general knowledge.

Particulars of all certificates may be found in the Australian Pony Club ‘‘Syllabus of Instruction’’ available to download HERE.

The E Certificate is optional, but recommended.

The D, D*, C and B Certificates are pre-requisites for the following certificates.

The C Certificate is recommended as the baseline for all members and will ensure that the rider has a good foundation of skill, safety and horsemanship.

Candidates can progress from C to B via either the C* or the K Certificate.

EXAMINERS

A Club examiner within a Club may test for E, D and D*. Each State must have a panel of examiners for certificates C and above (Zone Examiners). Examiners should not test in their own Club unless circumstances, such as excessive distance, make this necessary.

To remain on the Examiner’s Panel, examiners must be active members of a Pony Club and attend current refresher courses conducted by their State. The names of examiners on the Panel can be reviewed by each Zone/State every three years.

ASSESSMENT CREDITS

Any section of a Test passed by the candidate will be held as credit/s until such time as all sections are passed (maximum two years from original practical Assessment date).

JOURNALS AND WRITTEN PAPERS

Written papers are no longer required for E, D, D* and C Certificates. Candidates will be required to keep a journal for C* and above. Written papers are an option for some parts of the higher certificates.

CERTIFICATE MANUALS

Candidates will be required to work through the syllabus using Pony Club Australia certificate resources(i.e. Certificate Manuals).

WORKSHEETS

Worksheets are available for B and A which guide Candidates throughout the Syllabus requirements. There is no course content in the worksheets as it is expected that Candidates at this level will gather their knowledge from a variety of sources.

SUPPLEMENTARY TESTS FOR PRACTICAL SECTIONS

Supplementary testing may be required where horses or conditions are unsuitable on the scheduled day of assessment or where further development is required from the rider.

Supplementary testing may be undertaken at a time agreed by the Examiner and candidate once the candidate is ready and within two years of the first assessment at this level. Where possible, one of the original examiners should be engaged for the supplementary test.

PRESENTATION

For ridden assessments, candidates must wear Pony Club or PCA Accredited Centre formal uniform.

The horse must be clean and tidy, with hooves showing evidence of care.

All tack must be clean and fit correctly, and be in good repair.

Riders should ride in a snaffle bit where possible. If another bit is used for higher certificates, the candidate should be able to explain its action.

HORSES

Horse and rider combinations for practical assessment must have attended a minimum of 2 working rallies and must be the rider’s qualified mount as per State/Territory Rules.

CERTIFICATES AND CLOTH PATCHES

Certificates and cloth patches are available from the Pony Club NSW office for presentation to members gaining certificates. Cloth patches are to be worn on the right-hand sleeve of shirt or jumper above the elbow starting with D at the top.

Certificate	RECOMMENDED AGE
E Standard	Under 7 Years
D Standard	7 Years
D Star Standard	9 Years
C Standard	12 Years
C Star Standard	14 Years
K Standard	14 Years
B Standard	16 Years
A Standard	17 Years