The FEI, through its Development Programme, FEI Solidarity, recognised the need and the importance of educating coaches around the world in order to develop our sport and its practice in the best possible conditions regarding safety, horse welfare, etc.

In 2003, the journey to what is now known as the FEI’s Coach Education Programme for National Coaches began. This ongoing Education Programme is aimed at practicing coaches who wish to extend their knowledge and coaching skills, through an agreed syllabus covering both practical and theoretical sessions providing them with new tools and methodology, which is intended at helping coaches improve their skills and reach their goals.

The FEI, being a part of the International Council for Coaching Excellence (ICCE), created this programme in accordance with the framework and principles of the ICCE, which are recognised by the sports’ community worldwide.

Since its creation, over 4,000 coaches have taken part in this programme which offers modules from Introduction to Level 3 in the Olympic disciplines and Level 1 in Endurance, Vaulting and more recently in Para Dressage.

Para Dressage is a growing discipline and many countries are looking at developing this activity especially after being inspired by the amazing performances of Para athletes in the past editions of the Paralympic Games.

It was therefore a logical step for the FEI Solidarity to include as the next discipline in its Coach Education Programme Para Dressage and we are now looking forward to promoting this discipline through the education of coaches.