Today, during UK Coaching Week 2026, British Equestrian and a number of its member bodies have unveiled a revitalised Equestrian Coaching Certificate, marking a significant step forward in the evolution of coaching standards across the federation, with a more streamlined framework designed to support coaches at every stage of their journey.
The development follows a comprehensive structural review led by the federation’s Coaching Development Action Team (CDAT), chaired by British Dressage’s Charlotte Osborne, in response to changes in qualification regulations and aligned with the wider Coaching Action Plan. Working collaboratively across member bodies, the review has resulted in a clear, unified coaching pathway that reflects the evolving needs of today’s equestrian sector.
A modern framework centred on welfare, people and progression
An enhanced focus on participant welfare is at the heart of the updated qualification. It incorporates equine-centric thinking with the latest in equine learning theory, as well as strengthened safeguarding standards and more inclusive language supported by equity, diversity and inclusion resources.
These changes ensure the qualifications are fit for the future and firmly grounded in best practice for both horses and people. Thank you to the British Horse Foundation and World Horse Welfare for their contribution of resources to develop this content.
Charlotte Osborne, Chair of CDAT commented, “This review is about more than updating qualifications, it’s about embedding a strong culture of equine welfare and truly inclusive, person-centred coaching. By creating a more unified and consistent qualification pathway, we are supporting the development of great coaches and ensuring our qualifications are fit for the future and trusted across the industry.”
A simpler, clearer coaching journey
A key outcome of the review is the simplification of the coaching structure. This has now been consolidated into:
- A single core qualification at each level, providing consistent foundations across the federation.
- Technical coaching certificates, recognising discipline-specific expertise and the context in which competence is assessed.
This creates a more straightforward pathway, allowing coaches to clearly see their progression from entry level to Level 4.
Coaches will be able to add technical certificates in additional disciplines or contexts as they progress, supporting the development of broader and more versatile coaching expertise across the sector.
The following organisations will offer the new qualification:
- Association of British Riding Schools +
- British Carriagedriving
- British Dressage
- British Eventing
- British Horseracing Authority
- British Showjumping
- Endurance GB
- The Pony Club
Supporting transition and ongoing development
For coaches holding qualifications issued prior to 1 June 2026, transition arrangements will be communicated later in 2026. From 2027, conversion courses will be available to align with the new framework.
In addition, a new Continuing Professional Development (CPD) pathway will provide flexible access to an increased number of updated learning opportunities, enabling coaches to continue developing across a range of topics to ensure a balanced learning programme,
Driving the future of coaching
Adam Hughes, Strategic Lead for Relationships at British Equestrian and member of CDAT added, “The introduction of the refreshed Equestrian Coaching Certificates represents a significant milestone for the federation. By creating a more coherent and collaborative system, with a stronger emphasis on equine and human welfare, we’re supporting coaches to build sustainable careers while delivering the highest standards of care and performance. Thank you to all the organisations who have dedicated time to the review process and support the development the new qualification and a special note of thanks to Charlotte Osborne for her vision and leadership throughout the process.”
Find out more about equestrian coaching qualifications here.
