Now is the best time of year for aspiring riding instructors, equestrian program staff, camp staff, vaulting and driving instructors, and other professionals to get an official certification through the Certified Horsemanship Association (CHA). In addition, it is a great way for summer riding programs to enhance their programs by having their staff gain a professional certification before programs begin for the summer. CHA has been certifying riding instructors for more than 45 years and is the largest certifying organization in North America. Those seeking certification will go through a multi-day intensive certification clinic where they must pass written tests, be evaluated by two CHA Clinic Instructors (and other clinic attendees), and participate in in-depth workshops.
CHA offers the following certifications: Standard Instructor Certification in English and Western disciplines, Trail Guide Certification, Day Ride Trail Guide Certification, Combined Instructor/Trail Guide Certification, Instructors of Riders with Disabilities Certification, Seasonal Equestrian Staff Certification, Equine Facility Manager Certification, Vaulting Coach Certification, Driving Instructor Certification, and Driver Certification.
Certification clinics are currently scheduled in 20 U.S. states and two Canadian provinces (Manitoba and Ontario). New clinics are scheduled throughout the year. Those states set to host include: Alaska, Arizona, California, Connecticut, Georgia, Illinois, Iowa, Kentucky, Maryland, Michigan, Missouri, New York, North Carolina, Ohio, Oregon, Pennsylvania, South Carolina, Tennessee, Texas, and Washington, with some offering
Canadian provinces. New clinics are scheduled throughout the year. All clinics offer an exceptional value and include all educational manuals, CHA membership, and certification fees within the clinic fee.
Certification offers a variety of benefits, not only for the certified individual, but also for the employer, program manager, and clients/students. Benefits include insurance discounts, marketing opportunities through CHA, employment options, networking at professional events, and continuing education events. Certification adds legitimacy to a professional and shows customers that the person is committed to high professional standards. Certification shows that the professional knows how to teach in a safe, fun, and effective manner. For more information on the benefits, read CHA’s blog post, “Why You Should Find a Certified Riding Instructor” (click here).
For more information on attending a CHA Certification Clinic, please visit THIS PAGE >
For questions, please call CHA in Lexington, KY, at 859-259-3399 or email [email protected].
ACTHA Monthly | June 2015 | 64