Level 1 NPC/NDC Course

The HSI Level 1 Coaching Pathway provides candidates with a progressive and systematic educational pathway towards qualification as a professional equestrian coach.

Split into two separate routes, The National Development Coach (NDC) and the National Performance Coach, the Level 1 Coaching Pathway provides candidates with the technical knowledge and skills required to coach at their respective levels and puts equine welfare, good horsemanship and rider development to the core.

On both pathways, the HSI Coaching Programme uses modern systematic training methods which allow horses to be produced in a classically correct manner, with emphasis on the horse’s way of going, rider position, and the correct use of the training scale.

Delivered by an expert team of home-based Coach Developers, the course provides the opportunity for candidates to expand and improve their technical knowledge and practice their coaching skills under the guidance of leading industry experts.

National Development Coach (NDC)

The NDC qualification is suitable for candidates who wish to become high performing coaches at grassroots level. It is aimed towards all candidates who wish to expand and improve their technical knowledge, develop their coaching skills, and achieve a reputable and professional qualification at this level.

This pathway is particularly suitable for Irish Pony Club and Riding Club coaches as well as those who may be taking their first step into professional equestrian coaching.

Candidates who chose the NDC Pathway will have the option, following a period of development, to be assessed at NPC level and therefore continuing up the coaching ladder.

National Performance Coach (NPC)

The NPC Pathway caters for aspiring high-performance coaches who have previous coaching experience and can provide evidence that demonstrates they are currently working with riders at the relevant competition standard.

The course provides candidates with a framework of progressive exercises to develop horses and riders towards competing at novice Dressage, 1.10m Show Jumping and Novice Eventing. Following a period of development, candidates completing the NPC pathway can then go forward to Level 2, moving onwards up the coaching ladder.

It is recommended that Level 1 coaches work under the guidance of a HSI Level 2/3 Coach to further their professional development. 

Entry Requirements

Participants must be 18 years old prior to course start date. Please note, applicants should have sufficient equestrian experience and provide evidence of their experience and / or equestrian qualifications.

If you are interested in the Level 1 Coaching Pathway and wish to receive a copy of the Entry Requirements for 2022 please contact the Coaching and Education Department.

Course Dates 

Upcoming course dates will be published here.

 

Course Fee: €3,200

 

If you would like more information on the HSI Level 1 Coaching Pathway please email coaching@horsesportireland.ie or phone +353 (0)45 854 533.

Please note: HSI reserves the right to modify, alter or add to accreditation requirements in accordance with updates to HSI Coaching Programmes.