Beginning with those who entered the training program in 2000, a three (3) year time limit has been established by the
Board of Directors between the completion of
Phase II and application for
Phase III. If more time should elapse applicant must audit
Phase I and
Phase II before applying for
Phase III.
Beginning with those individuals who entered the training program in 2000, application for Phase III at the Instructor level requires documentation of 100 teaching hours (75 must be in a therapeutic setting and 25 may be with able-bodied riders) and 300 teaching hours for the Master level (200 must be in a therapeutic setting and 100 may be with able-bodied riders). Documented hours can be logged before, during and after the training.
All candidates must be a PACTH member in good standing between Phase I and Phase III.
EVALUATION PROCESS:
Evaluations are conducted by at least two representatives of the PQI Committee of the PACTH. Evaluators have training in the use of the assessment tool as well as expertise in the area of therapeutic riding.
Applicants will be rated on the following categories:
Completed Phase I with a passing score
Completed Phase II with a passing score
Communicates effectively
Relates well to students and volunteers
realistic about own abilities
Posses knowledge of disabilities commensurate wtih level
Maintains appropriate records for riders and horses (i.e., records, lesson plans, goals, student profiles, horse behavior, etc.)
Groups students as closely to age and ability as possible
Selects suitable mounts
Maintains lessons in smooth and organized fashion
Challenges each student to maximum ability level with a minimum of student frustration
Uses appropriate equipment (helmets, tack, stirrups, etc.)
Assesses horses to determine if sound, in good health, well groomed, and tack is appropriate, fitted and well-cared for.
Provides certificate of insurance
Conducts a safe program
Application:
Once basic requirements have been completed: Phase I, Phase II, and teaching hours, candidate should then submit the following:
- Application Form
- Self-Appraisal Form
- Proof of insurance
- Verification of teaching hours (Instructor - 100 hours, Master - 300)
- References
- Two personal references - may not be family members
- Two professional references - may not be family members
- Reference for riding abilities -- may be included in personal OR professional references
- Referee must state credentials for evaluating riding abilities
Fees: Fees are to be submitted prior to evaluation
- Application Fee (payable to PACTH) - $250.00
- Travel Expenses for Evaluation Team
- Current government mileage rate, per-meal stipend (contact Executive Director for details)
Upon receipt of application, self-evaluation and fees, the Executive Director will coordinate dates and times, contact evaluators and schedule the evaluation. The evaluators will score individually and then combine their evalutions for a recommendation to the PACTH Education Committee. Upon approval, the candidate will receive a complete write-up of the evaluation. Successful completion will culminate in a PACTH Pennsylvania Qualified Instructor (PQI) Certificate and inclusion in the roster of PQIs on the website and publications.
FOR MORE INFORMATION ON THE PQI PROCESS, CONTACT THE PACTH EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR.