SAQA All qualifications and part qualifications registered on the National Qualifications Framework are public property. Thus the only payment that can be made for them is for service and reproduction. It is illegal to sell this material for profit. If the material is reproduced or quoted, the South African Qualifications Authority (SAQA) should be acknowledged as the source.
SOUTH AFRICAN QUALIFICATIONS AUTHORITY 
REGISTERED QUALIFICATION: 

Occupational Certificate: Equestrian Coach or Instructor Level 3 
SAQA QUAL ID QUALIFICATION TITLE
110359  Occupational Certificate: Equestrian Coach or Instructor Level 3 
ORIGINATOR
Development Quality Partner - CEEPSA 
PRIMARY OR DELEGATED QUALITY ASSURANCE FUNCTIONARY NQF SUB-FRAMEWORK
-   OQSF - Occupational Qualifications Sub-framework 
QUALIFICATION TYPE FIELD SUBFIELD
Occupational Certificate  Field 02 - Culture and Arts  Sport 
ABET BAND MINIMUM CREDITS PRE-2009 NQF LEVEL NQF LEVEL QUAL CLASS
Undefined  265  Not Applicable  NQF Level 07  Regular-ELOAC 
REGISTRATION STATUS SAQA DECISION NUMBER REGISTRATION START DATE REGISTRATION END DATE
Registered  EXCO 0522/24  2021-03-25  2025-12-31 
LAST DATE FOR ENROLMENT LAST DATE FOR ACHIEVEMENT
2026-12-31   2029-12-31  

In all of the tables in this document, both the pre-2009 NQF Level and the NQF Level is shown. In the text (purpose statements, qualification rules, etc), any references to NQF Levels are to the pre-2009 levels unless specifically stated otherwise.  

This qualification does not replace any other qualification and is not replaced by any other qualification. 

PURPOSE AND RATIONALE OF THE QUALIFICATION 
Purpose:
The purpose of this qualification is to prepare a learner to operate as an Equestrian Coach or Instructor Level 3. A Level 3 Equestrian Coach or Instructor designs, develop and delivers Equine, Equestrian and the Equine and Equestrian combination, performance and skills at an international level. The learner will be able to achieve this Advanced Level and operate as an Independent Master Instructor. The learner conducts training, coaching and mentorship of Equestrian Coaches at Levels 1 and 2, manage an equestrian centre, design, develop and deliver programmes for all levels.

Level 3 Equestrian Coaches or Instructors train equines, riders and, the combination thereof for specific performance purposes, including assistance, security, leisure, competition, welfare, tourism, racing and education, in accordance with international standards. These industries comprise of a variety of specialisations and contexts and are fit for a specific purpose and according to internationally accepted procedures. A competent learner shall display the following attributes: tenacity, interpersonal skills, punctuality, integrity, and analytical skills.

A qualified learner will be able to:
  • Manage potential risks in the training centre and its environment for specific purpose.
  • Conduct risk management at an advanced level.
  • Train and mentor instructor for Equine, Equestrian and/or Equine and Equestrian combination for international level
  • Advise on management an equestrian training centre
  • Design, develop and deliver training programmes for Equines, Equestrian/nes and/or Equine and Equestrian combination for specific purpose.
  • Manage training programmes for Equine, Equestrian and/or Equine and Equestrian combination for purpose.

    Rationale:
    South Africa has offered qualifications for Equestrian Instructors/Coaches since 1976. In 1996 South Africa was invited to join the International Group for Equestrian Qualifications made up of 40 member countries. Membership of this body requires that the member countries have formal qualifications which subscribe to an agreed minimum International standard for the Coach/Instructor/Teacher/Trainer/Riding Master Levels 1; 2 and 3.

    In 2004 the then Equine Management and Equestrian Instruction Standards Generating Body (SGB) conducted research on the current status of the industry at that time, which found that the Equine and Equestrian Industry was fragmented. The continued mission was to provide for recognised South African qualifications, for all occupations in the Equine and Equestrian industry at NQF levels one to seven. These qualifications will ensure that all Equine and Equestrian stakeholders align themselves with basic to advanced unified minimum national standards which are measured against international best practices.

    The learning pathways in South Africa currently cater to the Equine and Equestrian Industry at NQF Levels 1 to 4. These levels represent the component horse care and management skills required for all Instructors/Coaches. The occupational qualifications as Equestrian Coach or Instructor complete the learning pathways from Levels 1 to 7 and will meet the competencies required at International level.

    The Equine and Equestrian Industry is high risk for both the Equine and Equestrian (human handler) and it is critical to equip learners with appropriate skills and knowledge to ensure the safety of Equine, Equestrian and the public. Legislation dictates that any individual or group of individuals offering a service such as qualified Equestrian Instruction, should be suitably certified to do so. The horse industry comprises of over 330 000 horses in South Africa and is represented across income brackets, from the lowest to highest earners, with an estimated 60 000 people employed in the industry.

    The qualification is designed for learners who can work unsupervised in an equine and equestrian establishment and for those who aspire to work at supervisory and management level. Learners may aspire to, or already work in a range of equine and equestrian environments including but not limited to: leisure organisations; competition yards; racing stables; riding schools; tourism establishments; State and private mounted service organisations and riding for the Disabled.

    Legislation dictates that any individual or group of individuals offering a service such as qualified Equestrian Instruction should be suitably certified to do so.

    This qualification will be accessed by learners that wish to progress in their career within the Equine and Equestrian Industry, continuing their learning within the industry for further job opportunities and to have past learning and industry experience formally recognised. 

  • LEARNING ASSUMED TO BE IN PLACE AND RECOGNITION OF PRIOR LEARNING 
    Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL):
    RPL for access to the External Integrated Summative Assessment:
    Accredited providers and approved workplaces must apply the internal assessment criteria specified in the related curriculum document to establish and confirm prior learning. Accredited providers and workplaces must confirm prior learning by issuing a statement of results or certifying a work experience record.

    RPL for access to the Qualification:
    Accredited providers and approved workplaces may recognise prior learning against the relevant access requirements.

    Entry Requirements:
    The minimum entry requirement for this qualification is:
  • Occupational Certificate: Equestrian Coach or Instructor Level 2, NQF Level 6. 

  • RECOGNISE PREVIOUS LEARNING? 

    QUALIFICATION RULES 
    This qualification consists of the following compulsory Knowledge, Practical Skill and Work Experience Modules:

    Knowledge Modules:
  • 342204-001-00-KM-01, Ethics, Legislative and Regulatory Requirements in the Equine and/or Equestrian Industry, Level 6, 10 Credits.
  • 342204-001-00-KM-02, Teaching Methodology for the Equestrian at International Level 3 for a Specific Purpose, Level 7, 10 Credits.
  • 342204-001-00-KM-03, Management of Schooling Methodology for the Equine at International Level 3 for a Specific Purpose, Level 7, 10 Credits.
  • 342204-001-00-KM-04, Management of Teaching Methodology of Complex Equestrian and Equine Combination Performance at International Level 3 for a Specific Purpose, Level 7, 10 Credits.
  • 342204-001-00-KM-05, Management and Analysis of Assessment and Evaluation Methodology for Complex Equestrian and Equine Combination Performance at International Level 3 for a Specific Purpose, Level 7, 10 Credits.
  • 342204-001-00-KM-06, Management and Wellbeing of all Equine and Equestrian Participants at International or level 3 for a Specific Purpose, Level 7, 10 Credits.
  • 342204-001-00-KM-07, Management of Coaching, Mentorship and Support Programme for Equestrian Instructor Levels 1 and 2, Level 7, 10 Credits.
  • 342204-001-00-KM-08, Occupational Health and Risk Management, Level 6, 5 Credits.
  • 342204-001-00-00-KM-09, Curriculum Design, Development Delivery and Quality Management System, Level 7, 20 Credits.
  • 342204-001-00-00-KM-10, Personal Equestrian Proficiency at International Level 3 for a Specific Purpose, Level 7, 10 Credits.
    Total number of credits for Knowledge Modules: 105

    Practical Skill Modules:
  • 342204-001-00-PM-01, Manage Equine, Equestrian and/or Equine and Equestrian Combination Welfare at International or Level 3 for a Specific Purpose, Level 7, 10 Credits.
  • 342204-001-00-PM-02, Design, Develop, Plan and Deliver Programme, Teaching Techniques, Aids/Equipment for Complex Equine, Equestrian and/or Equine and Equestrian Combination at International Level 3 for a Specific Purpose, Level 7, 20 Credits.
  • 342204-001-00-PM-03, Analyse Assessment Methods and Design Tools to Assess and Evaluate Complex Equestrian and Equine Combination Performance at International Level 3 for a Specific Purpose, Level 7, 10 Credits.
  • 342204-001-00-PM-04, Manage the Relevant Equine, Equestrian and/or Equine and Equestrian Combination Performance Programme and Quality Management System at International Level 3 for a Specific Purpose, Level 7, 10 Credits.
  • 342204-001-00-PM-05, Perform Personal Equestrian Proficiency at International Level 3 for a Specific Purpose, Level 7, 15 Credits.
  • 342204-001-00-PM-06, Management of Occupational and Welfare Risk Analysis, Level 6, 5 Credits.
  • 342204-001-00-PM-07, Design and Manage Instructor Coaching, Mentorship and Support Programme, Level 7, 10 Credits.
    Total number of credits for Practical Skill Modules: 80

    Work Experience Modules:
  • 342204-001-00-WM-01, Manage Occupational Health and Safety (OHS) and Risk Analysis for Specific Purpose, Level 6, 5 Credits.
  • 342204-001-00-WM-02, Programme/Curriculum Design, Teaching Technique and, Equipment for Complex Equine, Equestrian and/or Equine and Equestrian Combination at International Level 3 for a Specific Purpose, Level 7, 10 Credits.
  • 342204-001-00-WM-03, Analysis of Assessment Methods, Design and Tools to Assess and Evaluate Complex Equestrian and Equine Combination Performance at International Level 3 for a Specific Purpose, Level 7, 10 Credits.
  • 342204-001-00-WM-04, On site Performance Programme and Quality Management System at an International Level 3 for a Specific Purpose, Level 7, 15 Credits.
  • 342204-001-00-WM-05, Coaching, Mentorship and Support Management to Level 1 and 2 Instructors, Level 7, 10 Credits.
  • 342204-001-00-WM-06, Personal Equestrian Proficiency at an International Level 3 for a Specific Purpose, Level 7, 30 Credits.
    Total number of credits for Work Experience Modules: 80 

  • EXIT LEVEL OUTCOMES 
    1. Manage potential risks at the training venue and its environment for specific purpose.
    2. Advise on operations management of an equestrian training centre.
    3. Design, develop and deliver (performance) training programmes for Equine, Equestrian and/or Equine and Equestrian combination at an international level three (3).
    4. Design and manage Equestrian Instructor mentorship programme at international level.
    5. Manage training programmes for Equine, Equestrian and/or Equine and Equestrian. 

    ASSOCIATED ASSESSMENT CRITERIA 
    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 1:
  • Perform situational analysis.
  • Identified and evaluated Equine, Equestrian and/or Equine and Equestrian combination safety risks in relation to applicable Legislation (OHS Act) [environment, handling of horse, equipment, hazards or dangerous situations].
  • Apply appropriate steps in accordance with the relevant Legislation, Regulations, Rules and Ethical principles.
  • Identify, monitor, evaluate, advise, report and manage the welfare risks to equine, equestrian and/or equine and equestrian combination.
  • Plan, conduct and report hazard identification and risk analysis processes to the team for a specific purpose.
  • Identify and evaluate appropriate Equine, Equestrian and/or Equine and Equestrian combination safety risks in relation to applicable Legislation (OHS Act) [environment, handling of horse, equipment, hazards or dangerous situations].

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 2:
  • Plan, coordinate, advise, evaluate and recommend suitability of horses for training for specific purpose against performance.
  • Plan, develop, consult and recommend breeding programme for training centre.
  • Plan, develop, consult, evaluate and recommend training horse nutritional programme against performance.
  • Plan, coordinate, consult, evaluate and recommend Equine health and welfare services against performance.
  • Plan, coordinate, consult, evaluate and recommend training centre infrastructure development and maintenance against performance.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 3:
  • Conduct, report, develop and implement skills analysis for equine, equestrian and equestrian combination training programme at international level three (3).
  • Identify, develop, evaluate and review the purpose for training programmes.
  • Identify, analyse, organise, compare, evaluate and review training programme outcomes.
  • Review, analyse, compare, compile and deliver programme content.
  • Analyse, compare, determine, implement, evaluate and review teaching strategy/methodology is.
  • Analyse, compare, determine, implement, evaluate and review programme assessment strategy.
  • Evaluate, review, update and align training programme impact.
  • Develop, implement, monitor, evaluate and review quality management system for delivery of the programme for accreditation sustenance.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 4:
  • Design, discuss, develop, implement, monitor, evaluate and review mentorship programme.
  • Identify, plan, mobilise and manage resources for successful mentorship programme management.
  • Identify, discuss, manage, evaluate, compare, analyse, review and manage teaching and assessment methodologies applicable to performance requirements for a specific purpose.
  • Identify, discuss, compare, analyse, review and manage feedback on teaching and assessment methodologies and corrective measures according to performance requirements for a specific purpose.
  • Develop, deliver, carry out and apply, assess and evaluate subject matter expertise and personal proficiency according to internationally accepted standards for a specific purpose.
  • Discuss, execute, monitor and evaluate, adjust, analyse, review and manage components of the learning event for a specific purpose.
  • Develop, apply, evaluate, analyse and manage outcomes of the components' performance of the learning event for a specific purpose.
  • Ethically analyse, evaluate and provide relevant feedback on components' performance of the learning event for a specific purpose.
  • Discuss, analyse, execute, review and manage curriculum development process for a specific purpose.
  • Ethically complete and submit mentorship completion reports/documents

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 5:
  • Analyse, plan and implement, monitor, evaluate and review training (academic) plan.
  • Determine, evaluate, analyse, plan, develop, implement, monitor, control and review assessment plan, methods, and activities for training programmes (compliant to assessment policies).
  • Systematically identify, analyse and solve identified curriculum, learning material, training methods, assessment, quality management system and infrastructure problems.
  • Identify, recruit and manage human resources required to deliver the training programmes.
  • Identify, plan, mobilise and manage financial and infrastructure resources for successful programme delivery.

    Integrated Assessment:
    Integrated Formative Assessment:
    The skills development provider will use the curriculum to guide them on the stipulated internal assessment criteria and weighting. They will also apply the scope of practical skills and applied knowledge as stipulated by the internal assessment criteria. This formative assessment leads to entrance into the integrated external summative assessment.

    Integrated Summative Assessment:
    An external integrated summative assessment, conducted through the relevant QCTO Assessment Quality Partner is required for the issuing of this qualification. The external integrated summative assessment will focus on the Exit Level Outcomes and Associated Assessment Criteria. 

  • INTERNATIONAL COMPARABILITY 
    International comparability for this qualification was done with Australia and United Kingdom, which have thriving equestrian industries and are members of the International Group for Equestrian qualifications (IGEQ).

    For twenty years, SA has formally subscribed to the minimum internationally agreed equine and equestrian competencies ratified by the International Group for Equestrian Qualifications. These competencies are identified at three levels that equate to SA NQF Levels 5; 6 and 7. The discipline specialisations that are catered for are Dressage; Eventing; Show Jumping; Carriage Driving; Therapeutic; Vaulting; Tourism; Western Reining; Endurance and Tentpegging. Australia; United Kingdom and South Africa are all members of the IGEQ through their respective representative organisations. As such the similarities in the comparative study below all meet a universal minimum standard, including a minimum age limit.

    Australia:
    Equestrian Coach/Instructor Level 3 qualification is offered by Apex Training Institute. This qualification is accessed by learners that wish to progress in their career within the Australian Equine and Equestrian Industry, continuing their learning within the industry for further job opportunities and to have past learning and industry experience formally recognised. Candidates wishing to pursue these qualifications are required to meet the following entry requirements. They should be a minimum of 18 years of age and should have completed: Horse management which covers Horse care, management, handling, riding proficiency, introduction to coaching with proof of competency at completion.

    Possession of: (1) a current First Aid Certificate, (2) membership of Equestrian Australia and (3) Working With Children Check are mandatory.

    Upon completion of training tasks, learners will be able to apply for external assessment. Successful completion of external assessment will qualify learners to practice as Coach Level 3.

    United Kingdom (UK):
    Equestrian Coach Level 3 (BHSI-Level 3) qualification is offered by The British Horse Society. This qualification is accessed by learners that wish to progress in their career within the UK Equine and Equestrian Industry, continuing their learning within the industry for further job opportunities and to have past learning and industry experience formally recognised. Candidates wishing to pursue these qualifications are required to meet the following entry requirements. They should be a minimum of 18 years of age, should have completed: BHSI-Level 2, Horse care, management, handling, riding proficiency, preliminary teaching test with proof of competency and completion.

    Possession of: (1) a current First Aid Certificate, (2) membership of British Horse Society and (3) Protecting children certificate are mandatory.

    Upon completion of training tasks, learners will be able to apply for external assessment. Successful completion of external assessment will qualify learners to practice as BHSI-Level 3.

    These qualifications will equip learners with competencies that include but are not limited to management of Regulations for a specific purpose, management of Equine and Equestrian businesses, personal Equine training, personal Equestrian proficiency, design, manage and instruct learning programmes for Equine and/or Equestrian, and/or Equine and Equestrian combinations; provide constructive feedback, and manage risks associated with Equine and Equestrian practices.

    Similarities:
    Entry and mandatory requirements are similar for each comparative country. It has also been found that learners who have successfully completed these qualifications will be equipped with knowledge and skills that will enable them to apply and manage Regulations for a specific purpose, manage Equine and Equestrian businesses, design, manage and instruct learning programmes for Equine and/or Equestrian, and/or Equine and Equestrian combinations; provide constructive feedback, and manage risks associated with all Equine and Equestrian practices.

    Differences:
    The SA qualification is designed for all Equestrian Instructors including: Mounted Security Services; Tourism; Flat Racing; recreational riding instructors; coaches of 21 competition disciplines. However, the British Horse Society only cater to Tourism; recreational riding instructors; instruction of show jumping; dressage, eventing and road safety. Australia caters to: Instructors/Coaches of Dressage; Show jumping, Cross country; Show Riding; Vaulting; recreational riding instructors.

    Additional differences would be country specific disease control measures and relevant Legislation/Regulations for a specific purpose. The other differences that have been noted are with regard to the credit values assigned and the fact that the South African qualification is Government issued whereas in the UK and Australia, the qualification is issued by the external assessment body.

    Conclusion:
    This qualification compares favourably with those of Australia and United Kingdom in content, competencies and complexity. 

    ARTICULATION OPTIONS 
    This qualification allows possibilities for both vertical and horizontal articulation.

    Horizontal Articulation:
  • Postgraduate Certificate in Education, NQF Level 7.

    Vertical Articulation:
  • Postgraduate Certificate in Education, NQF Level 8. 

  • MODERATION OPTIONS 
    N/A 

    CRITERIA FOR THE REGISTRATION OF ASSESSORS 
    N/A 

    NOTES 
    Qualifying for External Assessment:
    The skills development provider will use the curriculum to guide them on the stipulated internal assessment criteria and weighting. They will also apply the scope of practical skills and applied knowledge as stipulated by the internal assessment criteria. This formative assessment leads to entrance into the External Integrated Summative Assessment. To qualify for an external assessment, learners must provide proof of completion of all required standards by means of statements of results and work experience.

    Additional legal or physical entry requirements:
  • Current and valid NQF level 1 First Aid Certificate.
  • SAPS Clearance Certificate for purpose.
  • Regulations.

    Criteria for the accreditation of providers:
    Accreditation of providers will be done against the criteria as reflected in the relevant curriculum on the QCTO website.

    The curriculum title and code are: Equestrian Coach or Instructor Level 3: 342204-001-00-00.

    Encompassed Trades:
    This qualification encompasses the following trades as recorded on the NLRD:
  • This qualification is not a trade qualification.

    Assessment Quality Partner (AQP):
  • Equestrian Qualifications Authority of Southern Africa (EQASA).

    Related Parent Qualification:
  • None 

  • LEARNING PROGRAMMES RECORDED AGAINST THIS QUALIFICATION: 
     
    NONE 


    PROVIDERS CURRENTLY ACCREDITED TO OFFER THIS QUALIFICATION: 
    This information shows the current accreditations (i.e. those not past their accreditation end dates), and is the most complete record available to SAQA as of today. Some Primary or Delegated Quality Assurance Functionaries have a lag in their recording systems for provider accreditation, in turn leading to a lag in notifying SAQA of all the providers that they have accredited to offer qualifications and unit standards, as well as any extensions to accreditation end dates. The relevant Primary or Delegated Quality Assurance Functionary should be notified if a record appears to be missing from here.
     
    NONE 



    All qualifications and part qualifications registered on the National Qualifications Framework are public property. Thus the only payment that can be made for them is for service and reproduction. It is illegal to sell this material for profit. If the material is reproduced or quoted, the South African Qualifications Authority (SAQA) should be acknowledged as the source.