This is not a mandatory program but is a fun way to earn badges in all different ways of Pony club. This Badge Program gives us the opportunity to accomplish several objectives of Pony Club and to offer members ways to learn and have fun with their ponies in a safe enjoyable environment. It can give direction to an education program; it can introduce a wider variety of horse related topics than involved in preparing for testing; and it can be a useful tool in encouraging intermediate members to remain in pony club. Young people join pony club with excitement and high expectations. A fun and educational badge system is an excellent way to encourage this enthusiasm, reward their efforts, expand their knowledge, and encourage initiative.

Badges can:

• Provide branches with assistance in designing their annual educational program
• Offer members a broad spectrum of horse-related activities
• Encourage creativity and learning
• Encourage both team work and individual research
• Provide goals and rewards for members, especially those who are not testing every year
• Provide recognition for members who compete at the regional, zone, national and international levels
• Provide recognition for members who volunteer in pony club and the community

The Canadian Pony Club currently offers:

• 18 junior badges intended mainly for untested, D levels and younger members
• 6 horsemanship badges, related to horse and stable management knowledge
• 6 arts and recreational badges, including riding and creative activities
• 6 regional recognition badges to be awarded for participation at regional D level competitions
• 18 senior badges, aimed at C level and above or older, late-joining members, are intended to increase senior members awareness of the larger horse world
• 6 horsemanship badges, related to horse and stable management knowledge
• 6 arts and recreational badges, including riding and creative activities
• 6 regional recognition badges to be awarded for participation at regional C level competitions