BHS Training

British Horse Society - As the largest and most influential equestrian charity in the UK

British Horse Society (BHS) Training

At Abu Dhabi Equestrian Club, we offer BHS training delivered by our team of experienced accredited professionals.

Our team includes a BHS Assessor and a Stage 5 Performance Coach (BHSI), supported by instructors currently working toward their Stage 3 qualifications. At Abu Dhabi Equestrian Club, we offer BHS courses and exams across all sections – horse care, lunge, ride, and teach.

We welcome riders and equestrian professionals from across the UAE and Gulf region, and are committed to helping you progress with confidence through every stage of the BHS journey.

Whether you’re starting out on your BHS journey, returning after a break, or advancing toward your next BHS qualification, our team provides expert instruction, personalised support, and a structured pathway to help you achieve your goals. Register your interest below and our team will guide you toward the right course or exam for your goals.

BHS Price List
Our BHS Services
BHS website
FAQs

BHS Services We Offer

Pathway Consultation & Assessment

Not sure where to begin? We assess your current level and position on the BHS pathway, then create a clear, personalised plan to help you move forward with confidence.

Direct Entry Applications

Have prior qualifications, competition results or industry experience? You may qualify for direct entry into BHS assessments by providing your relevant supporting information directly to the BHS. We can help guide you through the application.

BHS Exam Training - Stages 1, 2 & 3

Structured training courses covering horse care, riding, lunging and coaching. Available as 6, 8 or 10-hour courses depending on your stage, with weekly or intensive formats to suit your schedule.

BHS Skills Record Sign-Off

Mandatory for Stage 2 and above. Our BHS Accredited Professional Coaches are fully authorised to sign off your skills record across all levels, ensuring you meet the required standard before your assessment day.

BHS Mock Exams

Prepare for your assessment in real exam conditions. Mock exams are available across Stages 1, 2 and 3, covering riding, horse care, coaching and lunging - one of the most effective ways to build readiness and reduce nerves.

BHS Stage 1 Official Assessment

As an official BHS Exam Centre, we offer the Stage 1 Devolved Assessment in both Ride and Care right here in Abu Dhabi. Upon request, we can arrange Stage 2 and Stage 3 Assessments. Please contact us for more details.

FAQs

What is the British Horse Society (BHS)?
The BHS is the UK’s largest equestrian charity and the body behind the world’s most widely recognised system of horse care, riding and coaching qualifications, known as “Stages”. The ADEC Riding School is a BHS Approved Centre for Training and Assessments.

 

Is ADEC’s Riding School officially BHS accredited?
Yes. The ADEC Riding School holds BHS accreditation and undergoes annual BHS inspections to confirm it meets the required standards of horse care, training and welfare. All ADEC coaches are BHS qualified, with coaches qualified at BHS Stage 3, 4 and 5.

 

What BHS qualifications can I work towards at ADEC?
ADEC offers BHS training up to Stage 4, delivering courses and exams across all four sections: Horse Care, Lunge, Ride and Teach (Coaching). At present, we offer Assessments at Stage 1 and Stage 2 level, with Stage 3 and 4 Assessments planned for the future.

 

Who delivers the training?
Our BHS training team includes a BHS Assessor and a Stage 5 Performance Coach (BHSI), supported by instructors who are themselves working towards their Stage 3 and 4 qualifications.

 

Do I need any prior experience to start, or can a complete beginner train at ADEC?
Experience is preferred and advisable, though requirements differ by section. For Care training, complete beginners are welcome at Stage 1, though plenty of practice will be needed before attempting the Care assessment. For the Ride qualification, we do not provide riding lessons for complete beginners, so basic riding skills should be learned before enrolling in the BHS riding programme, and riding experience is essential if you wish to prepare for the assessment. If you already hold relevant qualifications, competition results or industry experience, you may be eligible for Direct Entry at a higher Stage (see Direct Entry, below).

How do I register for training, mock exams or assessments?

  1. Complete the BHS Registration Form, available on the ADEC website under the Academy section.
  2. Once we receive your application, our BHS Coordinator will contact you to discuss your goals and identify the most suitable qualification.
  3. Your name is then added to the waiting list for the appropriate training course or assessment.
  4. Before accessing any exam, candidates are required to attend a Mock Exam (Care) or Initial Assessment (Ride, Lunge, Teach).
  5. Before any exam, candidates will need BHS Membership (e-Membership), purchased directly through the BHS.
  6. Stage 1 exams are offered regularly throughout the year according to demand. For Stage 2 and 3, we aim to offer two examination sessions per year, typically in April and October. Spaces are extremely limited and reserved for ADEC staff and those working within the equestrian industry.

When can I come to ADEC to do a BHS Training Course or Mock Exam?
Once dates for Care training or Mock Exams are confirmed, candidates are notified by email or WhatsApp.

 

How do I know if I am ready to go for my Ride, Lunge and Teach qualifications?
Our BHS Coordinator will arrange a private assessment with one of our BHS coaches. This assessment determines whether you are ready to enter the examination, or whether you should complete additional training first.

Can I get some details about the Stage 1 Care Training Course

 

1. Training

  • Duration: 6 hours over 2 days
  • Fee: AED 1,100 + VAT

If additional preparation is required:

  • Private session (45 min): AED 400
  • Semi-private session (45 min): AED 250
  • Group session (45 min): AED 150

2. Mock Exam (Mandatory)

  • Duration: approx. 3–4 hours
  • Fee: AED 1,100 + VAT

This is compulsory before entering the official exam. If the required standard is not achieved, further training is required before the official exam can be booked.

 

3. Official BHS Stage 1 Care Examination

  • Duration: approx. 3–4 hours
  • Fee: AED 1,100 + VAT

A minimum of two weeks must separate the Mock Exam and the official examination.

 

Can I get some information about the Stage 1 Ride Training & Assessment?

 

1. Initial Assessment (Mandatory)

  • Duration: 45 minutes
  • Fee: AED 500 + VAT

Your coach will determine your readiness for the exam and recommend training if needed:

  • Private lesson: AED 500 + VAT
  • Semi-private lesson: AED 350 + VAT
  • Group lesson: AED 200 + VAT

2. Official BHS Stage 1 Riding Examination

  • Duration: approx. 1 hour
  • Fee: AED 1,100 + VAT

The Initial Assessment is compulsory before booking the official examination.

Can I get some information about the Stage 2 Care Training & Assessment?

 

1. Training

  • Duration: 8 hours over 2 days
  • Fee: AED 1,800 + VAT

Prerequisite: a BHS Skills Record signed off by a BHS Accredited Professional Coach. This can be arranged at ADEC (see “What is the Skills Record?” below).

 

If additional preparation is required:

  • Private session (45 min): AED 400
  • Semi-private session (45 min): AED 250
  • Group session: AED 150

2. Mock Exam (Mandatory)

  • Duration: approx. 4 hours
  • Fee: AED 1,250 + VAT

This is compulsory before the official exam. Candidates who don’t reach the required standard will be advised to complete further training before booking.

 

3. Official BHS Stage 2 Care Assessment

  • Duration: approx. 4 hours
  • Fee: dependent on the number of candidates

Can I get some information about the Stage 2 Ride Training & Assessment?

 

1. Initial Assessment (Mandatory)

  • Duration: 45 minutes
  • Fee: AED 500 + VAT

Most candidates require two assessments: Flatwork and Jumping. Please note that ADEC is currently unable to offer the jumping assessment, but will have this available at a later date.

 

If additional preparation is required:

  • Private lesson: AED 500 + VAT
  • Semi-private lesson: AED 350 + VAT
  • Group lesson: AED 200 + VAT

2. Official BHS Stage 2 Riding Assessment

  • Duration: approx. 2 hours
  • Fee: dependent on the number of candidates

The Initial Assessment is compulsory before booking the examination.

 

Can I get some information about the Stage 2 Lunge Training & Assessment?

 

1. Initial Assessment (Mandatory)

  • Duration: 45 minutes
  • Fee: AED 500 + VAT

Training options if needed:

  • Private lesson: AED 500 + VAT
  • Semi-private lesson: AED 350 + VAT

2. Official BHS Stage 2 Lunging Assessment

  • Duration: approx. 20 minutes
  • Fee: dependent on the number of candidates

The Initial Assessment is compulsory before booking the examination.

 

Can I get some information about the Stage 2 Coach Training & Assessment?

 

1. Initial Assessment (Mandatory)

  • Duration: 3 hours
  • Fee: AED 1,250 + VAT

If additional preparation is recommended:

  • Private coaching session: AED 500 + VAT (ADEC provides horses and riders so you can coach in conditions similar to the exam, with feedback from a BHS Stage 5 Certified Coach)
  • Shadow an ADEC Coach: free
  • Lecture delivered by a BHSI Coach: details to be confirmed

2. Official BHS Stage 2 Coaching Examination

  • Duration: approx. 4 hours
  • Fee: dependent on the number of candidates

The Initial Assessment is compulsory before booking the official examination.

What training formats are available?

Training can be arranged as weekly one-to-one or small-group sessions (once or twice a week), or as focused half-day or full-day intensive courses. Plans can be tailored to your goals and schedule. We also offer Mock Assessments, which help candidates get a better understanding of what the assessment environment is like.

 

Do you offer intensive training programmes?

Yes. Intensive training can be arranged on a case-by-case basis, depending on availability and your current level. Please contact us by email to discuss your requirements.

 

Is training at ADEC mandatory?

No, but it’s strongly recommended. Candidates may train at another approved centre or independently. However, candidates who train at ADEC will have a higher chance of being accepted into ADEC Assessments. The Mock Exam or Initial Assessment is mandatory for candidates taking their Assessment through ADEC, as this allows us to assess readiness, identify any areas for improvement, and give you the best possible chance of success.

 

How long does it take to reach each stage?

This depends on your previous experience and current level. For BHS Stage 1, candidates with prior riding and horse care experience generally require a minimum of 4–6 weeks of preparation. For BHS Stage 2 and above, preparation time varies, and following an assessment with one of our coaches, we can recommend a suitable training plan and estimated timeline. See the Stage 1 and Stage 2 Pathway sections above for exact course hours by discipline.

 

Can I get a personalised assessment of where I am on the BHS pathway before committing?

Yes. ADEC offers a Pathway Consultation & Assessment to review your current level and build a personalised plan towards your next BHS qualification.

 

Can I enter directly into BHS Stage 2 or Stage 3 (“Direct Entry”)?

Yes, Direct Entry may be possible if you can provide evidence of your experience, including:

  • Detailed reference(s) from an equestrian industry professional (such as a coach) covering your riding and horse care skills
  • Copies of relevant equine qualification certificates, including a breakdown of the units achieved
  • Affiliated competition results (if applicable)

You will need to apply directly to the British Horse Society (BHS) and submit the required supporting documents for approval. ADEC can help guide you through the application, but the final decision is made by the BHS.

 

What is a BHS mock exam and why should I book one?

A mock exam simulates real assessment conditions. Candidates demonstrate practical skills and give reasoned answers within a set time, just as in the official exam. It builds familiarity with the format, reduces exam-day nerves, and highlights any areas needing further practice.

 

Which Stages and sections offer mock exams at ADEC?

Mock exams are available for Stages 1, 2 and 3, covering Riding, Horse Care, Coaching and Lunge. Both private and group mock exam sessions are offered, and are strongly recommended as part of exam preparation.

 

Are mock exams recommended?

Yes. At Abu Dhabi Equestrian Club, mock exams are a compulsory part of the preparation process for candidates wishing to undertake the BHS Stage 1 Care and Ride Assessments. Our experience has shown that completing a mock exam significantly improves a candidate’s understanding of the assessment format, highlights any areas requiring further development, and greatly increases the likelihood of passing the assessment on the first attempt. Both private and group mock exam sessions are available, allowing candidates to choose the format that best suits their learning needs.

Can candidates sit their official BHS exam at ADEC?

Yes. ADEC is an official BHS Assessments Centre and hosts the Stage 1 Devolved Assessment on-site, in both Ride and Care. See “How the BHS Programme Works at ADEC” above for how often Stage 1, 2 and 3 exams are scheduled.

 

Do I need BHS Membership to sit an exam?

Yes. Before any exam, candidates need BHS Membership (e-Membership), which is purchased directly through the BHS, not through ADEC.

 

What is the “Skills Record” and do I need one?

The Skills Record is a compulsory part of any Stage 2, 3 or 4 assessment. It must be signed off by an authorised BHS Accredited Professional Coach (APC) confirming that you have met the required standard before your assessment day. ADEC’s accredited coaches are authorised to sign these off.

 

How far in advance do I need to book an official BHS assessment?

Per BHS policy, assessments must be booked at least 15 working days in advance. Assessments delivered outside the UK and Ireland, which includes ADEC, close for booking 20 working days before the assessment date. Booking after this deadline is not possible.

 

Can I travel from abroad, complete the training, and take the exam within a few days?

No. For BHS Stage 1, candidates should allow a minimum of two weeks between their training and/or Mock Exam and the official examination. This preparation period is important to ensure you are fully ready for the assessment, on top of the BHS booking deadline outlined above.

How much do the BHS courses and exams cost at ADEC?

Please see our BHS Price List for full details of Stage 1 and Stage 2 Training and Assessment fees. All fees are subject to VAT and are reviewed periodically, so please contact us to confirm current pricing before booking.

 

Does the price include BHS certification and administration fees?

For standard Stage 1 exams, listed prices include BHS administration, certification and postage fees. Please confirm this with us for the specific course you are booking.

Who is the BHS programme open to?

ADEC welcomes riders and equestrian professionals from across the UAE and wider Gulf region, at all levels, from those just starting their BHS journey, to those returning after a break, to those advancing towards a higher qualification as a professional career student.

 

Is there a weight limit for the riding sections?

Yes. For the welfare of our horses, candidates for the riding sections must weigh no more than 75 kg.

Do you provide accommodation?

No, ADEC does not provide accommodation.

 

Are there food and beverage facilities on site?

Yes. There is a café, a restaurant, and a shopping mall with additional dining options located on site.

How do I register interest or book?

Complete the BHS Registration Form. Alternatively, you can contact the Riding School team directly and we will advise on the right course or exam for your goals.

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