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Category: Coaching

  • Coaching Directory

    One of the benefits of being an EC NCCP-certified instructor or coach with an active Licensed Coach Status is inclusion in the AEF Coaching Directory. This public directory helps riders, parents, and facilities connect with qualified coaching professionals who meet national standards for safety, screening, and training. How the Directory Works To appear in the…

  • Coach Developers

    Coach Developers are experienced, trained professionals who support the development, evaluation, and mentorship of coaches within Equestrian Canada’s National Coaching Certification Program (NCCP). They play a critical role in ensuring coaching across Canada is safe, effective, and aligned with national standards. The Three Roles of a Coach Developer Click on the arrows below to expand…

  • Getting EC NCCP Certified: Your Step-by-Step Guide

    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: Learn more about the contexts here.​ Purchase your AEF Membership here. STEP 2: Complete Your Learn…

  • Responsible Coaching Movement – For Coaches

    The Responsible Coaching Movement (RCM) is coordinated by the Coaching Association of Canada and the Canadian Centre for Ethics in Sport, and has the potential to affect all sports organizations and coaches. The RCM consists of three pillars (Rule of Two, background screening and ethics training) that are each designed to help ensure a sports environment that…

  • Non-NCCP Coaching Certification Programs

    There are three other Non-NCCP Coaching Certification programs that the AEF recognizes: Canadian Therapeutic Riding Association (CanTRA), the Provincial Vaulting Trainer Program, and the International Group for Equestrian Qualifications (IGEQ). Canadian Therapeutic Riding Association (CanTRA) A CanTRA Coach certificate will be granted to Instructors after completion of a set of tasks which they will be…

  • LTED and EC NCCP Levels of Certification

    Long-Term Equestrian Development (LTED) is designed to support positive, safe, and meaningful equestrian experiences at every stage of participation — from first-time riders to high-performance athletes, including riders with disabilities. LTED outlines four NCCP coaching contexts that reflect the type of riders being supported and the coaching environment. Instructor The Instructor context forms the foundation…

  • NCCP Training Opportunities for Equestrian Coaches

    EC NCCP Equestrian-Specific Training Opportunities Equestrian Canada (EC) offers a series of equestrian-specific NCCP courses designed to support coach development and preparation for certification. These courses are optional, but strongly recommended for coaches who want to build a strong foundation and better understand NCCP expectations prior to evaluation. AEF Online NCCP Training Sessions AEF offers…

  • EC NCCP Certification Maintenance

    EC NCCP certification is issued on a five-year cycle. At the end of each cycle, certification is automatically renewed for the next five years as long as the required Professional Development (PD) points have been completed and an active Coach Status is maintained. To remain recognized by Equestrian Canada (EC) and Alberta Equestrian Federation (AEF),…

  • Coaching Evaluation Options

    Coaches pursuing National Coaching Certification Program (NCCP) certification can choose between two evaluation options. Each option is designed to meet different learning styles, schedules, and levels of readiness. Both pathways lead to the same nationally recognized NCCP certification — the difference is how the evaluation is completed. Online Video Evaluation The Online Video Evaluation option…

  • Coach Status vs. Coaching Certification

    Understanding the difference between Coach Status and Coaching Certification helps coaches, candidates, parents, and athletes make informed decisions and meet the requirements to participate safely and professionally in equestrian sport. What They Are — in Plain Language Coach StatusThis is your active licence to coach. It demonstrates that you’ve met essential safety and screening requirements…