BHS exams help secure university places

British Horse Society (BHS) exams are now recognized by the Universities’ and Colleges’ Admission Service (UCAS). This means that BHS Stage 3 (Horse Knowledge and Care, and Riding) and the Preliminary Teacher’s Certificate can help students secure a place at university or college.

The BHS exams are the first vocational qualifications to achieve recognition for UCAS points. Margaret Linington-Payne, director of standards at the BHS, said: “It is a fantastic achievement for our qualifications to be recognised by UCAS and will reward students who have put commitment and energy into equestrianism”.

Lininton-Payne explained how 35 points per qualification can count towards the total number of points you require for a place at your chosen university or college. Thus, 105 equestrian-related points will be available for those who are particularly interested in pursuing a Higher Education (HE) route in equine-related subjects.

UCAS and the BHS have been planning to offer this option for some time. According to Sam Whale from BHS’s Training Department, equestrian-led university and college courses require roughly 160-180 UCAS points.

The new rules come into effect from September 1, 2008. However, candidates can use the tariff points when applying for courses from September 2007 onwards.

For more information visit: www.bhs.org.uk