Recognising, rewarding and celebrating achievement

RDA activities have a strong learning element and can be used as a powerful educational tool by schools and colleges. Participants not only learn a skill in riding or carriage driving, but can also engage in a number of activities that focus on literacy, numeracy or other key skills. RDA is keen to ensure that individual’s achievements in these areas are structured and that these achievements are recognised beyond the RDA Group.

ASDANstands for Award Scheme Development and Accreditation Network and is based in Bristol. It is an awarding body approved by QCA, ACCAC, CCEA. It is a charitable organisation, offering a range of qualifications, awards and publications. There are currently over 4000 centres registered to run ASDAN programmes in the UK and RDA is one of these.

RDA and ASDAN have been working together since 2005, to develop tailor made programmes and ensure that RDA activities can be used, and measured, for education gains. We have now developed a comprehensive package of awards and qualifications which recognise, reward and celebrate individual achievement.

Awards

There are two awards which RDA groups have been using since 2005

Transition Challenge -

RDA sessions consist of many activities which easily fit

into Transition Challenge Award. Riders can gain certification

which is closely linked to National Curriculum subjects.

Towards Independence -

This award enables riders to gain certification for demonstrating

riding skills, horse care, knowing parts of the tack, listening to

instructions and much more.

Access

ASDAN programmes are suitable for both driving and riding groups. They are also appropriate for adults and children with a wide range of disabilities

Evidence Gathering

Each candidate will receive a Transition Challenge or Towards Independence Animal Care booklet which provides structured activities for instructors to follow. A portfolio of evidence must also be gathered which shows how the rider has engaged in the activities for e.g. a photograph of the candidate mixing feed, or samples of straw or sawdust to show what is used for bedding, riding from A to F around the riding arena, learning colours and numbers in a foreign language etc.

Assessment

This is usually carried out by the riding instructor and volunteers and it involves signing each activity off as it is completed as well as deciding on how much support has been given to the candidate to complete the task.

Moderation

Following assessment the portfolios and booklets are shared and moderated (checked) at a national moderation meeting by the RDA instructor/s and ASDAN to ensure that everything is in place. (SEE BELOW for latest Moderation Day)

Certification

Certificates are awarded following successful moderation. These can be presented in any way that the group feels is most appropriate e.g. School sports day, prize giving, end of term celebration, group open day or regional fun day.

Qualifications for Volunteers

Community Volunteering Qualification or CVQ.

Available at Level 1 (GCSE equivalent D-G, Level 2 (GCSE equivalent A-C, Level 3 (A Level Equivalent)

From September 2009 this new qualification will replace the ASDAN Certificate in Community Volunteering (CCV) Qualification.

CVQ is intended for volunteers seeking accreditation and progression routes e.g. new volunteers, riders/drivers who might wish to switch from client to volunteer; students involved in volunteering e.g. through the Duke of Edinburgh Award Scheme or established volunteers seeking to develop or enhance their role. This qualification also attracts points for University entrance.

What's In It For Us?

A more focussed approach to sessions
Teachers, teaching assistants, parents and carers can have greater input and make a significant contribution to riding
Shows that RDA is aware of educational developments that are relevant and attainable
Candidates take great pride in their folders as they can be shared with both friends and family
Schools and colleges can use the awards in OFSTED inspections as evidence of students’ achievements
Parents can become involved if candidates are doing activities at home
IT’S FUN

Please take the time to look at the case studies below written by candidates, parents and RDA volunteers.

Interested or Need Help?

Contact Nikkie Scotchmer at RDA National Office on 01926 405973 or email This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it who can put you in touch with your regional Education Co-Ordinator.

Groups that have signed up to the scheme will find further information on the Useful Resources page under the Member Groups section.

For details of forthcoming training events, please see below.

RDA/ ASDAN TRAINING EVENTS 2011/12

Tuesday 4th October 2011 at RDA National Office
This training day is intended for anyone who would like to find out more about the highly successful Towards Independence – Animal Care programme, Transition Challenge programme, Community Volunteering Qualifications and Employability Qualifications that have been introduced in RDA centres across the UK.

Please complete the delegate form in the downloads section below if you would like to attend the October training day.

Wednesday 8th February 2012 at RDA National Office
This training day is intended as a follow-up day for anyone who has embarked on delivering ASDAN programmes and/or qualifications and who would like support and feedback on their riders’ and/or volunteers’ work.

Please note: The 2012 External Moderation day will be held on 13th June at RDA National Office.

Downloads:

Title	Description
ASDAN FAQs	Fequently asked questions about ASDAN
Powerpoint Presentation	A short power point that can be used when giving talks on the RDA/ASDAN Education programme.
RDA Education Programme Resource Order Form	Order your ASDAN Resources for each of the elements (Updated July 2011)
elegate Form	To be completed if you would like to attend the October training day.