You must work calmly and efficiently at all times. Tasks performed extremely slowly, even when completed at a good standard, could result in failure of that specific subject. PRACTICE, PRACTICE, PRACTICE all practical tasks before taking your exam!!!

• Work calmly and efficiently at all times.

• Remain polite and courteous to the examiner, fellow candidates and yard staff at all times - remember everybody is as nervous as each other when taking the exam.

• Handle the horses you are working around with care and consideration - remember they may have done the same task several times that day, and are fed up, so ensure you treat them with the respect they deserves.

• Communicate well with the other candidates, especially ones you are partnered with - remember you are being examined on your ability to work as a team.

• If another candidate is performing a task in the stable, especially around the horse's hindquarters, communicate with them or wait before beginning your task.

• Do not take unnecessary risks.

• Speak up in discussions, but do not interrupt someone when they are in mid sentence.

• Follow exam techniques throughout the entire exam.

• Always use the correct lifting techniques.

• Be observant of the horse's mood at all times and deal with it accordingly.

• Keep the horse tied up at all times whilst working with him.

• Un-tie the quick release knot when tacking up.

• Keep the area you are working with tidy and safe.

• Do not put any tack or rugs on the floor.

• Do not leave any items in the stable with the horse.

• Wear the correct PPE for the specific tasks:
  • Riding hat, with the strap fasened, and gloves for leading.
  • Riding hat, with the strap fastened when handling the horse in the stable.
  • No gloves for tacking up and grooming the horse.

And finally: remember you are being examined on everything you say and do.