Become a
Coach at RDA
RDA is always looking for trained accredited coaches
Level 0
Level 1
Level 2
Hear from our Coaches
01
Andrea Shoobridge
RDA Trainee Coach
“I am not sure where the coaching path will take me but I will continue on
the journey and see where it leads!”
Andrea, a former dental hygienist, began volunteering at the Kingborough Centre in Tasmania after an injury in 2017. Her passion for helping people and horses led her to RDA. Now a Trainee Coach, she enjoys learning new skills and contributing despite her hand injuries.
Read more about Andrea’s inspiring journey here.
02
Fiona Orr
Level 1 Coach
“As the children step off the bus they are beaming, mirroring the enjoyment on our volunteer’s faces.”
Fiona Orr’s day at RDA Oaklands starts at 5am, tending to horses and preparing for riders. She balances coaching with managing volunteers and ensuring smooth sessions, often working late into the afternoon. Despite the challenges, Fiona finds fulfillment in the rewarding progress of her riders.
Read more about Fiona’s dedication here.
03
Sally Watson
RDA National Assessor
“I am passionate about RDA, that is why I have been involved since 1988 and I continue to be today.”
Sally Watson has been dedicated to RDA since 1988, serving as a Coach, Mentor, and National Assessor. She emphasizes the crucial role of volunteers and the sense of community at RDA Centres. Sally’s passion and extensive experience have made her an invaluable asset to RDA.
Read more about Sally’s impactful journey here.
How to become a coach
A Centre Coach course is designed for candidates with a foundation knowledge of horse riding skills, experience working safely around horses, aptitude for coaching and working with people with disabilities and a demonstrated ability to work within and lead teams. Applicants for Centre Coach must be over 16 years of age and 18 years of age before completing the qualification. They must also be able to demonstrate horse riding skills at Walk, Trot and Canter.
Advanced coaching courses are also available through the Coach Development Framework.
If you are interested in becoming an accredited RDA Coach please contact your local Centre or State Coaching Coordinator. If you have an existing coach qualification, it may be transferrable to the RDA coaching qualification and additional information regarding Recognition of Prior Learning is available from RDA Australia.
Ensure your local centre management committee has endorsed your training request
Contact your RDA State Coaching Coordinator to register as a Trainee Coach
States will provide information regarding pre-requisites for training, the application process and access to learning resources
To begin your training as an RDA Riding or Carriage Driving Assistant Coach, download the relevant form below and submit it to your State Coaching Coordinator.