Driving Coach - Level 1

The program follows the Competency Based Education (CBET) principles and is based on a two stream approach – one for Recreational Driving, the other for competition. Those with a background in recreational driving may wish to become Instructors, while others who have experience in competition may become Coaches. Both programs are identical at the Regional or first level.

The following is an information summary based on the Equine Canada approved Policy and Procedures Manual for Driving Coach / Instructor Programs.

THE DRIVING COACH / INSTRUCTOR – REGIONAL (Formerly Level I)
Coach / Instructor - Regional is an introduction to equestrian coaching. This coach is a dedicated enthusiastic person capable of instructing the sport of driving to beginners. This level stresses safety, welfare of the horse, horsemanship, a positive attitude and the development of teaching skills.

Candidates will bring their own teaching experiences to the program, and will exhibit patience while working with both horses and people. As safety is of the utmost importance, safe practices should be stressed, and taught by example including dress, harness, stable management, vehicles and road safety.

The Coach/Instructor – Regional will be knowledgeable in horse care, feeding, stabling; be able to administer First Aid to both students and horses, and recognize when to seek professional assistance. Exemplary horsemanship skills must always be seen to promote confidence and respect, not fear, of the horse.

PREREQUISITES

1. Candidates must be 18 years of age as of January 1st of the current year.

2. Grade 10 education or equivalent (mature applicants will be considered on their own merit).

3. Drive Canada Voting, Life or designated family member in good standing and hold a current Equine Canada Gold Competitive Sport License and PSO (AEF) membership.

4. National Coaching Certification Program - NCCP/EC Equestrian Specific Theory Course

5. Candidates must complete the "Learn to Drive" Program before attending a coaching development clinic

6. First Aid – St. John’s Ambulance or other equivalent program approved by the Driving Coaching Development committee.

7. Have attended and successfully completed the Coaching Development Clinic recognized by EC. These courses will be held in each regions of Canada based on demand and will be conducted by Equine Canada approved Course Conductors. Candidates must be able to demonstrate and teach driving skills and techniques according to the Driving Coaching

Resource Book, Chapter 6 – Coaching Techniques. Candidates will go through an ongoing evaluation process, and must demonstrate at a suitable and consistent level those practical components outlined in Chapter 11 – Candidate Evaluations and Knowledge Requirements.

8. Must be familiar with stable management prerequisites which include feeding, conditioning, first aid for the horse, grooming, stable construction, safety and fire precautions in the stable. These areas will be covered by completion of the Stable Management Workbook.

9. Must be familiar with County, Municipal and local by-laws having direct effect or implication to Coaching or Stable Management activities.

10. Complete and submit he appropriate application form along with two letters of recommendation from respected, active individuals in the local equine community giving specific reference to length of acquaintance, overall reliability, horsemanship and interpersonal skills.

REQUIRED PUBLICATIONS:

• Policy and Procedures Manual (Jul.03)
  
  
• Learn to Drive Manual (Apr. 03)
  
  
• Learn to Drive Coaches Guide (Apr. 03)
  
  
• Driving Coach Resource Book (Apr. 03)
  
  
• Stable Management Workbook (Apr. 03)
  
  
• Stable Management in Canada (1993)

For more information, please contact Drive Canada:  P.O. Box 2062, Vancouver, BC , V6B 3S3 , Tel: (604) 857-1905, Fax: (604) 857-9582, drivecanada@shaw.ca