The Pony Club ‘AH' Test stands alone as the highest Test of horsemastership available in The Pony Club. It is a pre-requisite for the ‘A' Test Riding, replacing the Horsemastership section of that Test.

It is recommended that where possible, candidates should take the two tests within a year of each other. Applicants for ‘A' Test Riding need not hold ‘AH' at the time of nomination, but will be required to give the date on which it is intended to take ‘AH'. They will not be allowed to do the ‘A' Test Riding unless already successful at ‘AH'. Candidates must be 17 yrs. or over and hold the ‘B' Test Certificate. From 2006 there will be a mandatory Lungeing Test, which must be passed before applying for the ‘AH' Test. Those Candidates who have only attained ‘B' Test Horse and Pony Care and the Lungeing Test (in 2006) will be allowed to attempt ‘AH' subject to a satisfactory riding assessment carried out by an ‘AH' Test Examiner appointed by the Area Representative.

Candidates should be thoroughly familiar with all practical requirements of the Test so that they are able to carry them out with speed and efficiency even under Examination conditions. It is important to work in a yard for a time beforehand, handling strange horses under all conditions and keeping to routine. In addition, veterinary surgeons and farriers are often willing to take interested and responsible candidates on their rounds, which provide invaluable experience. Candidates should try to read widely, as methods of feeding and veterinary treatment, in particular, are constantly changing and developing. Whilst having a firm grasp of traditional methods, they should be able to discuss modern thinking on these subjects, particularly, and have seen them in practice.

Candidates are expected to show common sense, be forward thinking, confident and positive in all they do. Tasks should be carried out in a safe, efficient, effective and practical way.

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