Equestrian Tourism Qualifications

The Trekking & Riding Society of Scotland, The Association of Irish Riding Establishments, the Welsh Trekking & Riding Association and The British Horse Society have worked very closely together for the last few years to develop qualifications for those working in the equestrian tourism industry, particularly those taking out treks/trail rides/hacks. The Assistant Ride Leader and Ride Leader qualifications are accredited onto the National Qualifications Framework and awarded by Equestrian Qualifications GB Ltd.

The first examinations were held in 1997 and already many centres are recognising the benefit of getting their staff trained and qualified. One centre, which arranged for its entire staff to become Equestrian Tourism qualified, has received a reduction in its insurance premium of approximately £800 per year.

These qualifications were especially developed to provide industry relevant, recognised standards at three levels for those working in equestrian tourism - Assistant Ride Leader, Ride Leader and Riding Holiday Centre Manager.

An optional residential refresher course is available to all candidates immediately prior to the examination. If candidates do not wish to attend the refresher course, they must arrive the night before the exam to attend the briefing.

It is strongly recommended that candidates attend the refresher course. Normally the training course will cover the whole syllabus and include riding out on all or most days. In order to be briefed on the stable routine, the examination training and other relevant matters, candidates must arrive at the examination centre by 6 pm on the evening before the examination. A charge for evening meal, and bed and breakfast may be made, which is not included in the examination fee. All refresher/training courses are organised by contacting the examination directly.

Please note candidates must hold their Riding & Road Safety examination BEFORE they can enter for and take any of the British Equestrian Tourism Examinations.