Discover. Learn. Join.
Love horses but don’t have one of your own?
This flexible and inclusive programme is for anyone who wants to build their knowledge and confidence around horses. No pony required!
Through 10 fun, practical sections, you’ll explore:
Knowing your club, your gear and horses
Understanding horse behaviour and welfare
Safe catching, leading, and tying
Grooming and hoof care
Saddling, covers and checking gear
Spotting health problems early
Feeding your horse
Daily care for where horses live
What it means to own a horse
Pony Club pathways
Introduction to Equine Skills Programme creates a clear, positive pathway for anyone who wants to learn about horses, whether they’re new to Pony Club, returning after a break, preparing to own a pony, or aiming for a career with horses.
It helps Clubs grow their community and gives every participant a place to belong, learn, and thrive, regardless of age, experience, or horse ownership.
Frequently Asked Questions
The Introduction to Equine Skills programme is open to anyone interested in horses, regardless of age, experience, or horse ownership.
It is a flexible, inclusive option for:
✅ Children of any age (with adult superivison)
✅ Anyone thinking about horse ownership
✅ Pony Club members wanting to boost horse care skills
✅ Adults who are new to horses, returning after a break or looking to build confidence and knowledge
✅ Families or caregivers wanting to learn together and support younger members
✅ Current members who want to expand or refresh their knowledge
✅ Members preparing to lease or buy a horse and seeking practical skills
✅ Youth and adults exploring careers in the equine industry, e.g. vet nurse, coach, groom, jockey, stud work
✅ Home-educated students or those completing the Duke of Edinburgh or other community service programmes
✅ Volunteers and parents wanting to understand horses and support Club activities
✅ Urban or first-time learners with limited access to horses
✅ School or community groups wanting a safe, supported introduction to horses and horse care
Contact your local Pony Club to see when the next programme is running, or email info@nzpca.org to find a participating club.
Yes!
After completing the 10 sections, you’ll earn a Certificate of Completion.
Want to go further? Do the optional Extra for Experts activities and receive your certificate with Distinction.
Plus you can achieve extra Achievement badges for additional learning and cross credit to all other NZPCA programmes, such as the Certificate Syllabus and Equine Skills.
You have access to Pony Club events, camps, learning resources, achievement badges, and awards and more!
You have Insurance cover while participating in club-approved activities.
You're surrounded by a supportive community of learners, volunteers, and coaches.
Flexible Pathways
You can attend up to three sessions as a casual participant before becoming a full Pony Club member and paying the membership fee. Before attending, you’ll need to complete a casual membership form and pay the casual session fee.
This lets you try the programme, meet the coaches, and see if Pony Club is right for you, with no pressure
IES is designed to be flexible, inclusive, and valuable for clubs of all sizes. Clubs choose to run it because it:
Attracts new members – provides a welcoming entry point for people without a horse, and appeals to parents seeking safe, structured activities for their children.
Retains existing members – keeps members involved if they temporarily don’t have a horse, and offers variety for HorseMasters and returning members.
Builds community connections – links with schools, youth groups, and community centres, showcasing Pony Club as inclusive and accessible.
Is flexible and affordable to run – can be delivered by a suitable volunteer (16+) with coaching mentor support, and uses existing facilities and resources.
Supports NZPCA values – develops empathy, togetherness, self-management, and participation through horse care, teamwork, and contribution.
Leads directly into Pony Club certificates – skills cross-credit into the D Certificate pathway and support achievement badge progress.
Boosts club income & sustainability – brings in membership levies, workbook sales, and potential grant or sponsorship opportunities.
Promotes horse welfare and education – teaches horse care, safety, and welfare before riding, preparing participants for responsible ownership.
The final cost is decided by the Centre, Branch, Club, or Area running the programme. It should cover local session expenses while staying affordable and welcoming for everyone.
There’s no set national fee, prices will vary depending on your community, venue, and any overheads such as coach fees or facility hire.
From the feedback we’ve received so far, here’s a typical starting guide:
Base costs per participant (August 2025):
Member Workbook – approx. $20 (required for each participant)
NZPCA Membership:
Under 18 – $75 (includes youth & adult national levies)
18–25 yrs / HorseMasters – $55
Adults (non-rider) – $20
Teaching Manual – approx. $10 (one per coach – club cost)
Optional / club-dependent extras:
Achievement Badges – ~$15 for 10 core badges (optional but recommended)
Coach fees
Venue hire
Certificates, ribbons, small rewards
How clubs set the fee:
Some charge just the workbook and membership if volunteers and facilities are free.
Others set a “programme package price” covering workbook, membership, and all sessions.
Clubs with existing members sometimes offer IES at a reduced rate for those already paying membership.
No – the volunteer does not need a coaching certificate. They can be anyone aged 16 or older who your committee feels is suitable. However, it’s definitely an advantage if they already have – or are working towards – a coaching qualification.
We recommend having your club’s head coach or another experienced coach act as a mentor for the volunteer. This ensures they feel supported, gain skills, and deliver the programme confidently.
Potential volunteers could include:
A motivated, enthusiastic parent
An older member who enjoys helping others (even if they don’t have their own horse)
An adult volunteer who’s keen to be involved in Pony Club activities
A returning member or HorseMasters participant looking for a new way to contribute
Extra tips for setting them up for success:
Pair them with a mentor for their first few sessions
Give them access to the Teaching Manual and Member Workbook in advance
Encourage them to attend coaching workshops, courses or observation day
Enrol in New Zealand Pony Club - Equestrian Coaches Training Programme
Hold a quick debrief after each session to share feedback and ideas
We are always continuing to improve. Please email training@nzpca.org with your suggestions.