What does BHS Stage 4 mean??

[Monty]

Sorry for my ignorance,but I'm not really into BHS examinations and their meanings.What would you expect from somebody with a Stage 4?? I'm talking in terms of bringing on the education of a youngster. Would you expect someone in their early twenties with this qualification have the maturity, and knowledge to do that??
Would be grateful for any comments.

[Mossy]

hi Monty
I am not that au fait with BHS stages either, BUT I rate the person more than the paperwork. Any exam only tests the person on the day. A stage 4 should have the theoretical knowledge but whether they have the right mental attitude is another matter. Can you ask around and get recommendations locally for somebody who is all round good? The wrong person can cause chaos. Sorry if i am no help at all.

[Jane.A]

Hi Monty
A BHS stage 4 is an intermediate instructor if they have both the all the bits, that is the stable managment, the riding and the teaching. They could possess any one part of it, so ask. Its a difficult exam to pass and if they have the riding they should be a pretty good jockey and able to school the BHS way.
I for one have moved away from straight BHS teachings and like to incorporate natural horsemanship wherever possible. When you talk to her you need to know if she considers that when a horse fails to understand something is it in her opinion a) being awkward b) not understanding. If its answer a) then her attitude will be dominate and thrash it...as opposed to giving the benefit of the doubt, or examine whether the horse has a physical problem that makes the manoeuvre difficult. Give her a whirl and see. She may be the answer to your prayers.
Hope the new lad is settling in well. Are you going to the RDA competition on 17 March in Clewyd? If you want details e-mail me.

[squid_is_ace]

i thought it meant British Horse Sosiety

[Tina J]

BHS does mean British Horse Society. They are talking about British Horse Society exams at different levels. Stage 1 is the easiest going up to grade 4. It means that they have passed an exam in front of a British Horse Society Examiner, and that according to the British Horse Society they are competant in BHS methods and knowledge at that standard.

Certainly the BHS stable management exams do seem to call for a standard that I am happy with - like Jane A I find that instruction a la BHS can be very variable. I prefer someone who has also studied natural methods.

[Monty]

This lady with the Stage 4 is coming to see me tomorrow.Also could you let me into the detail on this competition on March 17th .
I know what you mean about BHS versus natural.I too use a bit of both.I like Heather's 'kinder way to ride 'methods. I will see how she is,tomorrow and report back.I also agree with you Mossy.Probably the girl and how she handles horses is of course more important than any number of qualifications. Thanks every body.

[Jane.A]

Hi Monty
Contact Jan Wheelock on Tel:01535 636008 for further details of the competition on 17th March.