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PONY CLUB STANDARDS

The USPC Standards of Proficiency provide a core curriculum for individualized instruction. The Standards describe a clear progression of skills in riding and horse management. The Standards also provide opportunities for goal setting, as members are encouraged to proceed through those skills at a pace that is comfortable for them.

Clubs use the Standards of Proficiency as a plan for instruction programs. Therefore, ratings are an evaluation of the members' progress through the different levels. At the same time, USPC stresses that the rating tests should be a positive educational experience. Ratings are designed to encourage the candidate to "show and tell" what he or she knows.

Riding is a hobby, something to do for fun! Ratings are given in an effort to recognize achievement and encourage USPC members to gain confidence, independence and good safety habits while working with mounts. Goal setting, teaching and testing are good ways to accomplish this purpose.

The Standards of Proficiency describe the specific requirements for each level. A USPC member is ready for a rating test if he or she is able to perform the requirements for that level in a supervised teaching situation. After passing a test, a member may or may not be ready to attempt skills required at the next rating level. If not, he or she continues to receive instruction appropriate to the earlier level until a greater degree of proficiency is achieved.

All USPC members are encouraged to progress at a pace that is comfortable for them. Older members or knowledgeable adults assist in preparing for the rating tests.

WHAT ARE THE RATINGS?

Your child joins Pony Club as an unrated member and progresses through the lower level ratings (D1 through C2). The C3 is a regional rating, and the B, H-A and A are national ratings, adminstered by the National Testing Committee. Here is a brief overview of each level:

LEVELS OF RATINGS

D Ratings
This is an introduction to the fun and challenge of riding, establishing a foundation of safety habits and knowledge of the daily care of a pony and tack. The D1 through D3 learns to ride independently and with control, maintaining a reasonable secure position at the walk, trot and canter, and over low fences.

C Ratings
Pony clubbers learn to become an active horseman, to care independently for pony and tack and to understand the reasons for what he or she is doing. The 'C' shows development towards a secure, independent seat, and increasing control and confidence in all phases of riding.

B Ratings
The 'B' rating is for the Pony Clubber who is interested in acquiring further knowledge and proficiency in all phases of riding and horse care.

A Ratings
The 'A' rating is the highest and is divided into two parts: 'H-A' covers horse management, teaching and training, and 'A' tests the riding phase. This is given at the National level only.

WHAT ARE THE DISCIPLINES TAUGHT?

Some of the things we learn at pony club are: Dressage, Cross Country and Stadium Jumping... just to name a few.