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 1 
SAQA QUAL ID QUALIFICATION TITLE
110360  Occupational Certificate: Equestrian Coach or Instructor Level 1 
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  125  Not Applicable  NQF Level 05  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 1. Equestrian Coach or Instructor Level 1 trains Equine and Equestrian for fundamental purpose. A competent learner shall display the following attributes: tenacity, interpersonal skills, punctuality, integrity, honesty, and loyalty. This qualification will benefit learners by providing them with knowledge and skills that will enable them to render their services with confidence, riding on the flat and over fences and the initial principles of teaching and coaching, and will enable coaches to work independently but managed by a senior coach with a higher level qualification.

A qualified learner will be able to:
  • Train horses for fundamental purposes in accordance with the Equine and Equestrian standards.
  • Train riders for fundamental purpose in accordance with the Equine and Equestrian standards.
  • Display personal proficiency of identified task(s), within scope of work, for purpose (purpose may include but is not limited to the following: Equine, Equestrian and/or Equine and Equestrian combination).

    Rationale:
    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 mission was to provide for recognised South African qualifications for all occupations within the Equine and Equestrian industry. 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 Equine and Equestrian Industry is a high risk for both the Equine and Equestrian and it is critical to equip learners with appropriate skills and knowledge to ensure the safety of Equine, Equestrian and the public.

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

    Target learners are those who have completed an NQF Level 4 Equine or Equestrian related qualification and are currently involved in a range of equine and equestrian practices within the equestrian industry. Such practices may include but are not limited to leisure organisations; competition yards; racing stables; riding schools; tourism establishments; the mounted service organisations and riding for the disabled.

    Learners who successfully complete this qualification can advance their careers by enrolling in higher level equine or equestrian related qualifications. This will provide them with knowledge and skills that will enable them to take more responsibilities.

    The availability of qualified Equestrian Instructors within the Equine and Equestrian industry will ensure efficient and effective service delivery. 

  • 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:
  • Further Education and Training Certificate: Equine Practices, NQF Level 4.
    Or
  • An NQF Level 4 Equine or Equestrian related qualification. 

  • 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, Ethical principles, Legislative and Regulatory Requirements Relative to the Equine and/or Equestrian Industry, Level 4, 5 Credits.
  • 342204-001-00-KM-02, Teaching Methodology for the Equestrian at a Fundamental Level for Purpose, Level 5, 5 Credits.
  • 342204-001-00-KM-03, Schooling Methodology for the Equine at a Fundamental Level for Purpose, Level 5, 5 Credits.
  • 342204-001-00-KM-04, Personal Equestrian Proficiency at a Fundamental Level for Purpose, Level 5, 5 Credits.
  • 342204-001-00-KM-05, Teaching and Assessment Methodology for the Equestrian and Equine Combination for Purpose, Level 6, 15 Credits.
    Total number of credits for Knowledge Modules: 35

    Practical Skill Modules:
  • 342204-001-00-PM-01, Manage welfare of Equine, Equestrian and/or Equine and Equestrian Combination at a Fundamental Level for Purpose, Level 5, 10 Credits.
  • 342204-001-00-PM-02, Recognise, Identify, Apply and Maintain Teaching Aids and/or Equipment for Equine, Equestrian and/or Equine and Equestrian Combination at a Fundamental Level or Purpose, Level 5, 15 Credits.
  • 342204-001-00-PM-03, School, Facilitate and Assess Equine and Equestrian Training Qualifications for Purpose, Level 5, 15 Credits.
  • 342204-001-00-PM-04, Perform Personal Equestrian Proficiency at a Fundamental Level for Purpose, Level 5, 5 Credits.
    Total number of credits for Practical Skill Modules: 45

    Work Experience Modules:
  • 342204-001-00-WM-01, Situation Analysis for Fundamental Purpose, Level 5, 10 Credits.
  • 342204-001-00-WM-02, Management Teaching Aids and/or Equipment for Equine, Equestrian and/or Equine and Equestrian Combination at a Fundamental Level for Purpose, Level 5, 10 Credits.
  • 342204-001-00-WM-03, On site Performance Qualification is Delivered, Monitored, Assessed, Evaluated and Refined at a Fundamental Level for Purpose, Level 5, 10 Credits.
  • 342204-001-00-WM-04, Personal Equestrian Proficiency at a Fundamental Level for Purpose, Level 5, 15 Credits.
    Total number of credits for Work Experience Modules: 45 

  • EXIT LEVEL OUTCOMES 
    1. Train horses for fundamental purposes in accordance with the Equine and Equestrian standards.
    2. Train riders for fundamental purposes in accordance with the Equine and Equestrian standards.
    3. Display personal proficiency of identified task(s), within scope of work, for purpose (purpose may include but is not limited to the following: Equine, Equestrian and/or Equine and Equestrian combination). 

    ASSOCIATED ASSESSMENT CRITERIA 
    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 1:
  • Select and prepare learning resources for the training qualification.
  • Assess learning environment to establish suitability and readiness.
  • Conduct risk assessment to ensure compliance to applicable legislation (OHS Act) [safety risks may be in relation to the environment, handling of horse, equipment, hazards or dangerous situations].
  • Identify, report and mitigate welfare risks to equine.
  • Apply, evaluate and review ethical principles.
  • Identify and evaluate Equine, Equestrian and/or Equine and Equestrian combination safety risks.
  • Discuss, apply, evaluate and review horse training methodologies.
  • Determine and evaluate the audience.
  • Discuss, apply, evaluate and review horse training evaluation methodologies.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 2:
  • Identify, select, organise and use appropriate teaching material, aids and/or equipment for purpose in accordance with internationally accepted standards for purpose.
  • Determine, apply and evaluate teaching methodologies relevant to the objective of the qualification, level of performance and purpose and the audience.
  • Determine, apply and evaluate teaching methodologies relevant to the objective of the qualification, level of performance and purpose and the audience.
  • Develop, implement and evaluate applicable assessment methodologies and tools to assess and evaluate the qualification according to performance requirements for purpose.
  • Coordinate and implement teamwork in the delivery of training.
  • Identify and implement the necessary adjustments and changes to cater for changes during the delivery process.
  • Identify, apply, evaluate and review communication methods.
  • Provide relevant feedback of components' performance of the learning event for purpose.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 3:
  • Demonstrate the required competencies to facilitate and manage Equine, Equestrian and/or Equine and Equestrian combination in accordance with scope of work and purpose.

    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 
    This South African (SA) qualification was compared with qualifications in Australia and United Kingdom (UK), which have thriving equestrian industries and are members of the International Group for Equestrian qualifications (IGEQ).

    Australia:
    Equestrian Coach/Instructor Level 1 qualification is offered by Frontier Education. 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. Learners 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: Horse management which covers Horse care, management, handling, riding proficiency, introduction to coaching with proof of competency and 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 practise as Coach Level 1.

    United Kingdom:
    Equestrian Coach Level 1 (BHSI-Level 1) qualification is offered by The British Horse Society. This qualification will be 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. Learners 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: BHS Stages 1 to 3, 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 BHSAI-Level 1.

    These qualifications will equip learners with competencies that include but are not limited to management of Regulations for purpose, management of Equine and Equestrian businesses, personal Equine training, personal Equestrian proficiency, design, manage and instruct learning qualifications 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 purpose, manage Equine and Equestrian businesses, design, manage and instruct learning qualifications 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 Coaches operating in various sectors which include amongst others: 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 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 UK in content, competencies and complexity. 

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

    Horizontal Articulation:
  • Higher Certificate in Education, NQF Level 5.
  • Occupational Certificate: Adult Literacy Teacher, NQF Level 5.

    Vertical Articulation:
  • Occupational Certificate: Equestrian Coach or Instructor Level 2, NQF Level 6. 

  • 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 1: 342204-001-00-01.

    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.