E Standard

Candidates have reasonable control of their ponies at the walk and trot. Minimal help can be given with tasks.

D Standard

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

D* Standard

Further knowledge of grooming, feeding, care of horses, parts of the horse. More capable riding ability. Candidates must have control of their ponies and show a more secure and correct position for flat work and jumping.

C Standard

Objectives

• To attain a balanced seat, independent of the reins on the flat and over small fences.

• To show control of the pony at all paces.

• To demonstrate knowledge of horsemanship as outlined in the examination format.

Candidates should be encouraged to ride in snaffle bits wherever possible. If another bit is used, the candidate should know the name and understand its action.

The rider should be able to maintain consistent contact through the reins. In checking diagonals or leading leg, the candidate may drop the eyes to look at the shoulders, but may not drop the head or lean forward. Ideally the concept of "feel" through the seat should be introduced at this stage. The forward jumping position/s with a steady lower leg should be established by the time of the test. To obtain a secure and steady seat candidates should be encouraged to hold on to the mane or a neck strap over the jump.

C* Standard

Objectives:

• To become an active rider with knowledge of the aids and how to apply them correctly and effectively.

• To ride simple cross country and showjumping fences

• To gain practical experience and knowledge of the care and conditioning of the horse in preparation for a strenuous event.

• To have a thorough knowledge of the Road Rules for horses as apply to your State.

• To ride safely and sensibly on the roads and in the country.

C Certificates are assessed throughout the year by Zone CIP's.

B Standard

Objectives:

• To become a competent, all-round rider, who knows the reasons for what he/she is doing and is able to assess results.

• To ride over different types of fences at specified paces.

• To be capable of riding and jumping any well-mannered horse or pony, and commenting on its way of moving.

• To be capable of joining in any suitable Pony Club activities of interest to the rider, e.g. Eventing, showjumping, Gymkhanas, etc. and looking after the horse before, during and after the day's activity.

• To gain knowledge and practical experience of the care and conditioning of horses and to be able to look after a stabled horse

• To ride intelligently and with due regard for others on the roads and in the country, with a knowledge of pace and distance.

B Certificates are assessed annually by the PCQ CIP.

A Standard

Objectives:

• To become an educated horse person, able to ride with confidence, style and polish on the flat and over fences.

• To understand the principles of training, including young horses, as taught in Pony Club and be able to put these principles into practice.

• To be capable of riding and jumping horses of all temperaments and stages of training and of assessing a horse's potential and how it could be schooled to improve ride and performance.

• To gain wide knowledge of the care and conditioning of horses.

• To have a sound knowledge of the organization and running of Pony Club Australia and the Candidate's own State Association

• Knowledge of other societies and organizations connected with horses.

The preparation for the "A" test should be progressive and continuous. It is an exam for the serious and dedicated rider who is prepared to devote thought, time and effort to improving his/her riding and knowledge of training a young horse.