The Course Companion for BHS Stages Preliminary Teaching Test (Students) [Paperback]

This is a really good book to get if you want an overview of the PTT. However, as any prospective candidate should know, the exam has changed slightly in 2001 and now has a written paper. This does not invalidate the book and it is a really good base from which to gain background information whilst you teach. I've taken BHS exams up to stage 3 whilst at university, and have found this series very useful. It is well written and clear.

This is the course companion is for the BHS (British Horse Society) Preliminary Teaching test, but there are other guides in this series that also cover Stages one to four. Its is an indispensable and necessary book to have for all those who intend to take this examination, for it contains information and learning material on everything you will need to know. I have taken many examinations under the British Horse Society including my Stages (both riding and horse care sections) and the Riding and Road Safety exam, and have found these course companions indispensable. These books really do aim to help the student in passing the examination, and although they may not be able to help you with horse riding or teaching students, they do cover everything for the academic side of the exam. This book also contains additional extra information which should be useful to anyone starting out as a riding instructor in the industry.
This book works progressively through all the aspects of teaching equitation, from the beginner rider to the management of a riding school office. This book is an invaluable study and revision aid which no examination candidate will want to be without, and which I cannot stress the importance of enough from my own personal experiences of using these books before taking my examinations. The subject matter will be equally helpful to anyone involved in the teaching and running of a riding school, thus it would be a beneficial read to instructors, grooms/ stable hands at a riding school and managerial staff. Complete with detailed diagrams and illustrations that are self-explanatory on both the horse and rider, this book really does bring teaching to life and the requirements of the examination for those with the desire to teach others.

To take this exam one must be a member of the British Horse Society (Gold membership) and have already passed their Stage one riding and care examination, their Stage two riding and horse care examination and additionally (would be advised) the Stage three examination, which is not compulsory before this PTT. The Association of British Riding Schools (ABRS) and BHS approved establishments do highly recommend and advocate those who intend to continue taking more riding instruction qualifications after completion of the PTT, as this examination is only a basic and other higher qualifications would be even better such as AI examinations; for the individual who wants to progress in this specific career sector of the equine industry. Having entered these exams your aim naturally is to pass first time as they are very expensive, and so being thoroughly prepared beforehand is just so important. If you read this course companion alongside your practical preparation then the chance of passing the examination first time around is much more likely and much more possible. I strongly recommend this book that can be obtained from J.A Allen who specializes in equestrian literature, and course companions to the various examinations and tests in the horse world.