Become a Coach

We are looking for new coaches to join us

Coaching Fundamentals

Coaching with RDAV offers a unique opportunity to share your passion for horses with people ready to experience the freedom, movement and development associated with equestrian-related activities—all in a community setting with like-minded, passionate people. You’ll access great support and training, all while making a huge difference in the lives of people facing complex challenges.

As a coach, you’re trained and supported to help people take the reins on independence and life-changing experiences

Coaching Pathway

RDA recommends that prospective trainees volunteer at a Centre for approximately six months before undertaking training. Depending on your level of equestrian and disability industry experience, you’ll do individualised volunteer training, and get familiar with the RDA environment.

RDA riding coaches are qualified under the National Coaching Accreditation Scheme. RDAV, through Riding for the Disabled Association of Australia, provides training to its volunteers/coaches through an accredited training system in three progressive stages:

Level 0 (Orientation to Coaching (Riding and Carriage Driving))
Level 1 (Riding, Carriage Driving and Vaulting)
Level 2 (Riding)

Before you submit an application:

You must have a current Working with Children Check.
Be over 16 years old, and to complete the qualification must be over 18 years old. You must also be able to demonstrate horse riding skills at Walk, Trot and Canter.
You can be recognised for prior learning if you have a current PCAV or EA qualification. Talk to our Operations Manager for further information.
Your local Centre must endorse your training application.

01 Level 0 (Orientation to Coaching – Riding and Carriage Driving)

This qualification focuses on entry level equine skills for volunteers and those wanting to work along the coaching pathway. It’s designed for candidates who are interested in learning how to teach basic riding skills, basic horse care and stable management.

It involves working through the RDAA worksbook under the guidance of a Coach Educator and experiences a range of coaching styles. The assessment includes practical and written activities, demonstrating competencies against performance criteria/learning outcomes.

Once completed the following competency standards have been met:

Supports the RDA Coach to run an approved program;
Communicates simple instructions relevant to the activities to both volunteers and riders
Identifies potential safety issues and in conjunction with the RDA Coach, manages them according to RDAV policies.
Handles and cares for the horses according to RDAV policies.

This can be completed within 6 months.

To begin your training as an RDA Riding or Carriage Driving Level 0 Coach, download the relevant form below and submit it to the RDAV office.

02 Level 1 (Riding, Carriage Driving & Vaulting)

This qualification focuses on the skills needed for those who want to become an RDA Assistant Coach and run safe and effective programs. It teaches the specific skills required for an RDA setting including understanding riders who come to RDA, adapting programs, providing a safe environment, and supporting leaders and side walkers. Once completed the following competency standards have been met: Adapts and uses conventional and special equipment and/or variety of coaching methods appropriate to the skill level of riders and horses. Selects, trains, handles, and cares for horses according to RDAV policies. It involves at least 40 hours as an assistant to a qualified RDA Coach; a minimum of 30 hours must be with RDA, the remaining 10 hours can be logged as a qualified coach (if you have the qualification) with Pony Club, EA or Adult Riding Club.

03 Level 2

This qualification focuses on the skills needed for those who are in a Coach’s role at an RDA centre and who have completed their Level 1 assessment.

It covers more specialist skills needed for developing RDA programs and working as part of a wider RDA team.

Once completed the following competency standards have been met:

Demonstrate the ability to methodically observe, analyse and develop rider skills in line with realistic short- and long-term goals.
Selects and develops advanced discipline specific training techniques for RDA horses according to RDA methods and best practice.

Roles and Responsibilities

All coaches must be accredited as part of the National Coaching Accreditation Scheme (NCAS) and are required to undertake Working with Children and First Aid Level 2 check as stated in the RDAV Working with Children Checks Policy before they can be an approved RDA Coach.
Coaches are expected to behave at all times in a manner supportive of the welfare and best interests of the participants and are responsible for conforming to the highest levels of participant care. Additionally, all coaches must observe a professional standard of conduct at all times and recognise that they are representing the organisation and strive to advance the mission, vision and values of RDAV as outlined in the organisation’s Strategic Plan 2021 - 2024.
Coaches are responsible for the overall management of their program. These duties shall include but not limited to instruction for participants, to clearly define and assign duties and supervision of volunteers and assistant coaches (including equipment setup) as well as completion of directed duties and daily tasks related to compliance operations and applicable organisation rules and regulations.
All coaches shall continue to advance their knowledge related to teaching excellence and safety considerations by attending at least one coaches’ workshop, clinic or other professional development experience per year using organisational professional development funds.
The organisation requires coaches and assistant coaches to wear approve trademark adorned apparel while coaching or representing the organisation. This apparel can be purchased through the organisation. Ripped clothing, singlet tops, flowing scarves, thongs or open toed shoes are prohibited.

Application Forms

We need coaches throughout Victoria, so please complete the relevant application form below and forward it to RDAV’s state office for processing.