Riding Tests

E Standard

This test is an entirely voluntary option which Members may choose to take before attempting the ‘D’ Test. It is important that Members should always have a goal at which to aim, and the Tests ‘D’,'C’,'B’ and ‘A’ provide the successive rungs of the ladder at each stage of proficiency.

D Standard

To have a basic understanding of ponies To achieve confidence in handling and riding a pony To improve and enjoy learning about ponies Recommended Minimum age 8 or 9 years.

D+ Standard

To have a basic understanding of ponies, To achieve confidence in handling and riding a pony, To improve and enjoy learning about ponies.

C Standard

To understand the importance of, and to be working towards a secure seat independent of the reins To apply simple aids correctly. To have a knowledge of the care and working of a pony off grass. To be in control of the pony on the roads and in the countryside. To have a proper regard for country lore. Recommended minimum age 11 or 12.

C+ Standard

To become an educated and practical horseman. To ride over fences at all paces. To gain practical experience and knowledge of the care of a stabled pony and of a pony at grass. To be capable of riding a well-mannered pony out hunting and in all Pony Club activities. To ride intelligently and with due regard for others on the roads and in the country, and with a knowledge of pace, distance and discipline when riding alone and in groups. Recommended minimum age 14 years.

Road Rider Test

The Pony Club is a leader in the promotion of road safety. Members are taught the importance and the need for care and courtesy on the roads and coached and prepared for The Pony Club or British Horse Society’s Road Safety Test. The ‘Junior Road Rider’ book has been produced by The Pony Club and this can be had obtained from The Pony Club Office and is essential reading. The British Horse Society publications ‘Riding and Roadcraft’ can also be bought from The Pony Club Office. This covers the subject in greater detail, and Members should be urged to have one. The local BHS road safety representative can often give lectures on road safety.

B Standard - Horse and Pony Care

To gain practical experience and knowledge of the care of a stabled pony and of a pony at grass. To look after a pony before, during and after the day’s hunting or other activity. Recommended age is 15/16 years.

B Standard - Riding

To become an effective horseman who knows the reasons for what he is doing. To ride over fences at all paces. To be capable of riding a well-mannered horse or pony out hunting, in horse trials, or on a long distance ride, to look after a pony before, during and after the day’s hunting or other activity. To ride intelligently and with due regard to others in the country, with a knowledge of pace, distance and discipline when riding alone and in groups. Recommended age is 15/16 years.

The B Test and the British Horse Society Exemption

Members holding the full B Test are allowed direct entry to BHS Stage III. Read further details here.

2006 Lungeing Test

The 2006 Lungeing Test Syllabus is now available from Pony Club Merchandise.

AH Test

The Pony Club ‘AH’ Test stands alone as the highest Test of horsemanship available in the Pony Club. It is recognized world-wide and is very much sought after. It is a pre-requisite for the ‘A’ Test Riding, replacing the Horsemastership section of that test.

A Test Riding

The Pony Club A Test is the highest Test within The Pony Club structure. It is recognized world wide and is very much sought after!