The British Horse Society
The British Horse Society represents the interests of over 4.3 million people in the UK who enjoy riding horses and also for people who drive horse drawn vehicles. The BHS is the most influential and largest equestrian charity in the UK. The BHS offers the most recognised and respected equestrian qualifications in the world. They have a wide range of high quality training courses, conventions and events to suit everyone. As a major UK equine insurance company we are always happy to help pass on information about horse rider education.
The BHS exams are recognised internationally and test a candidate’s equine knowledge, and coaching and stable management skills. The Horse Owner’s Certificate is offered on four levels of knowledge on the care and management of a horse. These certificates are aimed at first time horse owners and the parents of horse owners.
Each level is assessed by a written paper. It has to be completed under examination conditions and an adjudicator has to be present. You can take the courses anywhere. However, the trainer has to be a member of the BHS Register of Instructors. The instructor will follow the syllabus which is appropriate for each level. You can also purchase books through the BHS Bookshop.
The examination papers will be marked and set by the registered instructor who is in charge of the course. The passing mark for each level is a 60% or higher. Once you pass the course you will receive a certificate for each level attained. The certificate is sent to the instructor to pass on to you.
There are four levels of exams associated with getting your Horse Owner’s Certificate.
Level One covers your knowledge of horse types, colours, markings and uses. It also includes basic stable management and keeping a horse healthy and comfortable. You will also be tested on your basic knowledge of shoeing and grooming your horse.
Level Two concentrates on foot care, and recognising common injuries and basic first aid. It includes the care and maintenance of grassland. You will need to know about saddlery, insurance, and bedding. You will also have to know about the Highway Code and Country Code.
Level three tests your knowledge on treating common injuries, stable management, and horse transportation. It also includes clipping, trimming and plaiting. Level four concentrates on your knowledge in all aspects of keeping your horse healthy and happy. You will have to know about vitamins, horse ailments and treatments. It also covers stable management and saddlery.
As the UK's fastest growing independant ethical insurance company, AFI have been dedicating all net profits to the welfare of animals around the world for many years now. We are proud to have added equine insurance to our product list. For an insurance quote on your horse, pony or donkey call our dedicated horse insurance team on 0844 57 32 100.
