BHS Stage Examinations are vocational exams designed for and aimed at, persons wishing to either pursue teaching as a career or who simply wish to explore the extent of their equestrian knowledge.

The Stage 1 - The first qualification a candidate can achieve and the depth of knowledge and riding requirements progressively increases up to Stage 2.

The Stage 2 - Is more in depth knowledge of Horse Care with the riding section involves a course of  showjumps and work without stirrups.

The Stage 3 - The Horse Care Sections now in depth with more management elements. The riding section involves some lateral work on the flat, showjumps up to 3' 6" and a small course of cross country jumps.

This can be part of an equine apprentice programme or privately funded.

Private Costs are £40 per day of training.
 

NVQs and SVQs: NVQs and SVQs are  qualification from the BHS awarding body.

These qualifications are completely different from obtaining a BHS exam, which you apply to take on a specific date and on the day you either pass or fail. With NVQs and SVQs you are assessed on a continuous basis whilst at your place of work.  A portfolio of work has to be produced which does require assignments in each section.  The riding options are similiar to the Stage Exams. There are other optional units such as 'Trekking', 'Preparing the Performance Horse' etc. These are the core of the Apprentice programmes and involves attending the centre one day per week. 

Apprentice programme - Training free  

Private costs - £40 per day (paid termly)