Welcome! This guide will walk you through the steps to become EC NCCP certified in equestrian sport.
STEP 1: Choose Your Coaching Context & AEF Membership
Select the coaching pathway that aligns with your goals and experience. Common NCCP contexts include:
- Instructor – For coaches working with beginners and foundational riders.
- Competition Coach (CC) – For coaches preparing athletes to compete.
- Competition Coach Specialist (CCS) – For coaches working with competitive athletes in a specific discipline.
- Competition Development (HP1) – For coaches focused on athlete development at higher performance stages.
- Once you’ve chosen your context, ensure you have a current AEF membership. Your membership supports access to resources, events, and coaching tools.
Learn more about the contexts here.
Purchase your AEF Membership here.
STEP 2: Complete Your Learn to Ride/Drive Certificate (if required)
Some coaching contexts require you to complete a Learn to Ride/Drive Certificate before moving forward.
This step typically includes:
- Purchasing the appropriate manuals (e.g., Learn to Ride & Stable Management)
- Booking with an approved assessor in your area
Want to Challenge a Level?
You can challenge a level by:
- Completing all written exams up to the level you’re challenging
- Completing Stable Management for that level
- Riding only the highest level challenged
You’ll receive only the highest certificate passed (e.g., Level 8 if successful).
STEP 3: Complete Required Training Modules
Before evaluation, you must complete the foundational NCCP training requirements:
- NCCP Make Ethical Decisions Online Evaluation
Complete this online evaluation in The Locker - Concussion Awareness Module
Access through your My-EC account - Prevention of Maltreatment in Sport
Also completed through your My-EC account - Registered Coach Status
This is the minimum requirement to be evaluated. If you already hold Licensed Coach Status, that is also accepted - Other modules as required for your coaching pathway.
These training requirements ensure you understand safe sport principles and coaching fundamentals. Training completion is tracked through the NCCP Locker or your EC/Coach Status profile.
STEP 4: Choose & Book Your Coaching Evaluation
Once training is complete, you’re ready for your final evaluation.
You have two evaluation options:
- Online Video Evaluation
Submit recorded coaching sessions that demonstrate NCCP competencies, with clear guidance and evaluation criteria. - In-Person Evaluation
A scheduled on-site assessment for coaches who prefer an in-person evaluation experience.
Both options lead to the same national NCCP certification — choose the format that best fits your learning style and schedule.
Find out more about these evaluation options here.
Additional Information
Training Platforms by Module Type
- Multisport Module – Alberta Sport Calendar: NCCP MULTI-SPORT CALENDAR | Alberta Sport
- Equestrian-Specific Modules: https://www.equestrian.ca
Additional Resources
Stay supported throughout your coaching journey with tools and updates from AEF:
Explore external training offerings such as Ontario Equestrian’s Competition Coach Specialist or Competition Development cohorts.
Sign up for the Coach e-News for program updates and important announcements.