From The Talland International School of Equitation
The information below regarding the guidelines and dress code for the exams is, in most cases, generic: where this is not the case, a comment will be made:
- Before entering for a BHS examination, you must have read the relevant syllabus so that you are conversant with the requirements.
- It is advisable to go for an assessment lesson with an instructor who may be a BHS Assessor, so they can advise you on your ability and training needs.
- The examinations are professional qualifications so you must be well prepared and feel reasonably confident in your ability – it is better to be above the level of the exam for which you have entered, so that on the day, when you are feeling nervous, you will still be up to the required standard.
- Ensure that when you have entered for an exam, you know where the exam Centre is within the country and leave plenty of time to get there.
- The exam guidelines may say to be at the exam venue for 08:30 hours but it is recommended that you arrive by 08:00 hours so you can read the exam programme and ‘explore’ the Centre – walk the show jumping and cross-country courses and find the toilets. Every Centre has its own ethos so arriving early will ensure that you can try to relax and get the ‘feel’ of the Centre.
- Be prepared for British weather – bring wet weather clothing with you and a change of clothing just in case. If it is pouring with rain and you are required to ride outside, you can wear a waterproof coat. For the Stable management section, you can change out of your riding jacket and into a plain sweatshirt.
- Before you leave home, check that you have brought the correct whips, spurs, hats, gloves, body protectors, paperwork (sometimes you may be required to show the Chief Assessor a previously acquired certificate like the Riding and Road Safety), pens, pencils and reference books. It is too late when you arrive at the exam and you realise you have forgotten them.
- If you are suffering from an ailment such as asthma, ensure you remember your medication and if necessary, inform the Chief Assessor.
- During the examination there will be time for you to go to the toilet, have a drink or change your jacket. If your exam lasts most of the day, you will have a lunch break. Catering facilities are not always available, so please ensure you bring your own packed lunch and a drink for during the day. Before you set out for your exam or on the way, it is critical you eat and drink as the exam day is stressful and you do not want to make yourself ill.
- During the exam, the assessors will try to put you at ease but ask them to repeat questions or requests if you do not hear or understand them. It’s better to ask than make mistakes.
