TESTING

TESTING

Testing Program

Testing provides riders with the opportunity to demonstrate their riding and horse management skills as they progress through the levels offered by the Canadian Pony Club. While testing is not mandatory, it is strongly encouraged as a valuable way to benchmark achievements, set goals, and track personal development.

Tests are held throughout the year at Branches across the Region, with additional testing opportunities organized by the Alberta South Region. Testing consists of both a written and a practical component. During the practical assessment, candidates demonstrate their horse care and stable management skills, including grooming and handling their horse, as well as completing a riding evaluation appropriate to their level.

Riders can progress through the testing system over many years, advancing from beginner levels to the prestigious A Level. Examiners look for steady growth in both theoretical knowledge and practical horsemanship skills at each stage of development.

Testing Levels

When a member first joins Pony Club, they are considered an E-Level rider. The testing progression them moves from E to A in the following sequece: E → D → D1 → D2 → C → C1 → C2 → B → B2 → A

The A Level represents the highest standard of horsemanship within the Canadian Pony Club and recognizes exceptional knowledge, riding ability, and horse management skills.

Testing up to and including the C1 Level is generally organized by individual Branches. Testing for the C2, B, and B2 Levels is organized by the Alberta South Region, while A Level testing is administered by the National Organization.

Test Representatives

Each Branch appoints a Test Representative (Test Rep) who is responsible for coordinating and organizing testing opportunities within the Branch.

Test Reps work closely with candidates, examiners, and the Regional Testing Chair to ensure testing is conducted according to Canadian Pony Club standards.

For an overview of the testing process and Branch responsibilities, please refer to the Test Representative Presentation.

Components of a Test

A Pony Club test consists of three components:

1. Written Test

The written test evaluates the candidate's understanding of horse care, stable management, and horsemanship theory appropriate to their level.

2. Stable Management Assessment

Candidates demonstrate practical horse care and management skills appropriate to their testing level. Areas assessed may include grooming, tack, feeding and nutrition knowledge, horse health and welfare, handling skills

3. Riding Assessment

Candidates complete a riding evaluation designed to demonstrate competence and confidence at their testing level. Expectations increase progressively as riders advance through the Pony Club testing program.

Practical Testing: D to C1 Levels

Several opportunities for lower-level practical testing are offered each year throughout the Alberta South Region.

Most Branches organize one or two testing days annually. If a Branch has only a small number of candidates, members may be able to join a testing day hosted by another Branch. In addition, the Region hosts an annual Regional Testing Day for D through C1 candidates.

Branches planning to host a testing day must notify the Regional Testing Chair by submitting the required hosting form.

Information regarding examiner requirements, examiner fees, and the number of examiners needed can be found in the Examiner Policy.

Practical Testing: C2 to B2 Levels

Testing for the C2, B, and B2 Levels is conducted exclusively at the Regional level.

The Alberta South Region typically hosts one testing opportunity each year for these advanced levels. Candidates are encouraged to familiarize themselves with the ABSR Testing Protocol, which outlines the testing process and expectations for upper-level candidates.

The testing process generally includes:

• Submission of an Intent to Test form.

• Development and submission of a Testing Plan.

• Completion of any required pre-test documentation.

• Participation in the practical testing event.

• Submission of an Event Log following testing.

All required forms and supporting documents are available on the Regional website.

Testing dates are established at the beginning of each year and published on the Regional Event Calendar.

Continuing Your Pony Club Journey

The Pony Club testing program provides a structured pathway for riders to develop confidence, knowledge, and practical horsemanship skills. Whether you are preparing for your first D test or working toward the prestigious A Level, testing offers meaningful milestones that recognize your progress and commitment to excellence in horsemanship.

For additional testing information and national testing resources, please visit the Canadian Pony Club website.