BHS Preliminary Teaching Test
This qualification will provide the holder with the competencies to apply the basic principles of coaching, to improve the rider’s horsemanship skills, following a progressive plan. They will understand the health and safety procedures involved in organising a lesson or hack in the open or on the roads. They will be able to modify sessions to facilitate the ability of the rider in front of them. They will be able to evaluate their own performance and show ability to assess progress in their pupils in an unsupervised environment.
Holders will be able to work in a commercial riding establishment or private yard or as a freelance coach. Preliminary Teachers will have the opportunity to register and gain the Level 2 (UKCC Endorsed) Certificate in Coaching by completing a portfolio of evidence. As from 1 January 2010 holders of the Preliminary Teaching Test, who have completed a portfolio will be able to progress to the BHS Intermediate Teaching Test. The Preliminary Teaching Test is a component part of the BHS Assistant Instructor Certificate.
Preliminary Teaching Test – 2012
As from 1 January 2012 we have removed some of the presentation topics. Candidates will no longer be required to produce presentations for:-
- Ensuring Equitable Coaching Practice
- Equitable Coaching – Riders with Special Requirements
- A Coaching Code of Practice and Why It Is Important
- Evaluating and Reflecting Upon Coaching Sessions
- Behaviour Management and Ground Rules
Candidates’ knowledge on these subjects will be assessed through questioning during the exam.
The following presentation topics remain:-
- Goal Setting and Why It Is Important
- The Importance Of Warm-Up And Cool-Down For Riders And Horses
- Why Learning Styles Are Important
- Nutritional Advice for Novice Riders
- Roles and Responsibilities Of A Coach And Coaching Styles
- Mental Preparation for Riding