Education System for FEI Classifiers Version 6 20.09.2015 1
Overview The FEI is responsible to train and certify the members of the Classification Panel, in order to allow them to determine an Athlete s Grade and Grade status. It is recognised that prior learning undertaken by physiotherapists and medical doctors will underpin their Education as Para-Equestrian classifiers. Hence, the Para-Equestrian Classifier Education System is primarily a competency based process building on existing clinical expertise. The FEI Education System for Classifiers consists of three Levels. Entry Level: FEI Trainee Classifier An individual who is in the process of formal training by the FEI but who is not yet certified as an FEI Classifier. A trainee may not be an appointed member of a Classification Panel at an FEI competition. This individual cannot allocate an FEI Grade. Level 1 FEI Classifier The Level 1 FEI Classifier who has successfully completed the formal FEI training and has been certified to be a member of a Classification Panel at an FEI competition. This individual may participate in the assignment of a Grade under the supervision of Level 2 Classifier. Level 2 FEI Classifier The Level 2 FEI Classifier acts in a leadership capacity at competitions and reports to the FEI Head of Classification. They work as a team to ensure quality Classification and assist and train newer Classifiers. Level 2 Classifiers have completed the formal FEI training, show leadership, participate in research activities and Education of classifiers in the Classification system, have sufficient experience to interpret the FEI Rules at a competition and are able to act as the final arbiter in Protests as required. Chief Classifier - Is a Level 2 Classifier who has been mentored by another Chief Classifier and shall be approved by the FEI in consultation with the Organising Committee for a specific competition. Level 1 and 2 FEI Classifiers are FEI Officials and will be listed in the FEI Directory. 2
1. Preliminary Remarks 1.1 Terminology Classification Panel (CP) The Classification Panel is a group of Classifiers who allocate an Athlete s Grade and Grade Status in accordance with the FEI Classification Rules as described in the FEI Classification Manual. Classifiers do not allocate FEI Grade and Grade Status individually. Classifiers work as members of a Classification Panel. Chief Classifier (CC) FEI Para-Equestrian Technical Committee (PETC) FEI Headquarters (HQ) FEI Head of Classification (HoC) International Paralympic Committee (IPC) Logbook List of official FEI/IPC relevant activities (events, seminars, workshops, research activities, reading related journal articles) to prove the criteria to remain listed. To be kept by the Classifier. Entries to be signed by a Classifier of higher level, Course Director, Technical Delegate, member of the Event Organising Committee, or relevant other who can verify activity has been completed. Mentoring Classifier A Mentoring Classifier is an official FEI Classifier (as Level 2 FEI Classifier at least 5 years certified as an FEI Classifier) who supervises and assesses applicant Classifiers during events. The Mentoring Classifier must act in official capacity as FEI Classifier at the event. National Federation (NF) National Paralympics Committee (NPC) Para Equestrian (PE) 3
1.2 General Accredited classifiers at all levels must have a detailed knowledge of and follow the relevant prescribed Rules as set down in the most current: FEI Sport Rules FEI Classification Manual IPC Classification Code and International Standards including: o International Standards for Eligible Impairments o Athlete Evaluation o Protests and Appeals o Classification Data protection IPC Classifier's Code of Conduct. Classifiers must not fulfil any other role at a competition when they are a member of the official Classification Panel at that event. 1.3 Information Resources on Quality of Classifiers A Classifier at FEI events will be evaluated with the help of the following means: Official reports Informal resources such as experience at events, feedback from stakeholders or the PETC. These resources will be compiled and analysed within FEI HQ. 4
2. Diagram of the FEI Education System for Classifiers Level 2 FEI Classifier Application for promotion approved and Accreditation as Level 2 FEI Classifier achieved. Works to maintain competencies required of a Level 2 FEI Classifier. Completes accreditation requirements as described. Fulfil the criteria to remain listed Level 1 FEI Classifier Application for promotion approved and Accreditation as Level 1 FEI Classifier achieved. Works to meet competencies required of a Level 2 FEI Classifier. Completes accreditation requirements as described below. Fulfil the criteria to remain listed Entry Level FEI Trainee Classifier Application through the National Federation (NF) to the FEI to be considered for FEI Trainee Classifier approved by the FEI (PE Technical Committee and Classification Working Group). Works to meet competencies required of a Level 1 FEI Classifier. Completes accreditation requirements as described below. Applies through the NF to the FEI for promotion to Level 1 FEI Classifier. 5
3. Competencies for FEI Classifiers 3.1 Entry Level FEI Trainee Classifier Job Specifications The duties of the trainee may include: Active participation and observation in order to learn Classification Rules and to develop competencies and proficiencies for certification. Attend Classification meetings at events. Inform FEI if the authority to practise ceases. Note: FEI Trainee Classifiers cannot have any responsibilities as a member of a national delegation at the event where Classification training takes place. Having no such official duties allows trainee classifiers to participate fully in their Classification training. FEI Trainees or their country must pay all expenses for the trainee to attend a competition (travel, food and accommodation). The trainee wears neutral clothes at all times. FEI Trainee Classifiers may apply to the HoC for inclusion in a competition to complete their training; however the number of trainees per event will be limited. Expected Competencies Demonstrated experience as a National Para equestrian Classifier. Able to communicate both written and spoken information in English with clarity and confidence to a diverse group of people. Works with a nominated Level 1 or 2 FEI Classifier in a mentor/mentee relationship. Identifies areas for Education with a Level 2 FEI Classifier and actively works to address these. Works towards competencies for Level 1 FEI Classifier. 6
3.2 Level 1 FEI Classifier Job Specifications The duties of the Level 1 FEI Classifier may include, but are not limited to: Work as a member of a Classification Panel to allocate an athlete's Grade and Grade Status at FEI sanctioned events. Work as a member of a Protest Panel as required. Attend Classification meetings at competitions. Assist in Classifier training and accreditation as requested by the HoC for Para-Equestrian or the Classifier appointed to be in charge of the training activity. Inform FEI if the authority to practise ceases. Expected Competencies Able to communicate both written and spoken information in English with clarity and confidence to a diverse group of people. Knowledge of Para-Equestrian Classification Demonstrated commitment to the role and responsibilities of a Level 1 FEI Classifier Demonstrated working knowledge of all aspects of the Classification process including the Eligible Impairments, Athlete Evaluation, Protests and Appeals and Classification Data Protection Completes at least 4 FEI Classification assessments with a Level 2 FEI Classifier over a period of 12 months Participates in informal supervision with a Level 2 FEI Classifier Athlete Evaluation Knowledge of health conditions and impairments eligible to be classified for Para equestrian Able to evaluate Athletes with complex health conditions and/or impairments and determine if athlete meets the Minimal Impairment Criteria Following Athlete evaluation is able to assign appropriate Profile, Grade and Status May mentor and coach National Classifiers in the Para-Equestrian Classification process May support National classifiers with more complex Classification assessments Knowledge of Para-Equestrian sports Understands the role, structure and function of the FEI in relation to Para-Equestrian and how Classification fits within this organisation Knowledge of the FEI Sport Rules for Para-Equestrian Competition Completes documentation relevant to Athlete Classification as required by the FEI Comprehensive knowledge of the process for identifying, recording and approving standard and non-standard compensating aids used by Athletes in FEI Competition 7
Interpersonal/Communication Skills Deals with complex and sensitive issues using high level problem solving/decision making skills Liaises effectively with senior level staff, officials and volunteers involved with FEI Para- Equestrian sport Responds effectively and within the expected time frame to queries and questions from the various governing bodies and Head of Classification Provides leadership to National Classifiers utilising the principles of effective coaching and mentoring Educates others about Para-Equestrian Classification utilising adult learning principles May act as a mentor to an FEI Trainee Classifier 3.3 Level 2 FEI Classifier Job Specifications The duties of a Level 2 FEI Classifier include duties of a Level 1 FEI Classifier and in addition include, but not limited to: Supervising and evaluating FEI Trainee Classifiers and Level 1 FEI Classifiers Conducting or assisting in accreditation level courses Assisting as required in the research, education and clarification of the FEI Classification Rules Assisting in the regular review of the Sport and Classification Rules Providing workshops to train and update Classifiers nationally if required Providing workshops to update FEI Classifiers internationally at the request of the FEI HoC. Expected Competencies Meets all competencies as described above for Level 1 FEI Classifier and in addition: Demonstrates an explicit knowledge of the Classification process for FEI athletes. Demonstrates high level in depth knowledge of the workings of the FEI as it pertains to Para-Equestrian sport at FEI level. Demonstrates a comprehensive knowledge of FEI issues pertaining to Classification and Para-Equestrian sport. Supports the Head of Classification and members of the FEI Classification Working Group in the education of Classification Rules and procedures as required. Works with the FEI Classification Working Group to implement changes to FEI Classification Rules. May assist the FEI to evaluate evidence based practice in relation to Classification. Demonstrates effective, strong leadership skills. Establishes an effective mentor/mentee relationship with less experienced classifiers. Consulted by Level 1 FEI Classifiers on complex Classification issues pertaining to the assessment of athletes, providing advice and training as required. Establishes a strong working network with other FEI Classifiers. Able to advise own NF on complex issues pertaining to Classification. 8
Demonstrates high level communication skills and works to modify communication to overcome barriers. Demonstrates strong skills in and application of the principles of adult education. 3.4 FEI Chief Classifier Note: FEI Chief Classifier is not an additional promotional level. For all FEI Para Equestrian Competitions requiring two Classifiers to be present, one must be nominated as the Chief Classifier. CPEDIM, CPEDI1* and CPEDI2* - one National and one FEI Classifier are required. The FEI Classifier must be appointed as the Chief Classifier. CPEDI3* - two FEI Classifiers are required. Where possible at least one FEI Classifier should be of Level 2 and should be appointed as Chief Classifier. CPEDI4* including championships - two FEI Classifiers are required. Where possible, both Classifiers should be of Level 2 with one be appointed as Chief Classifier. Job Specifications Administering and coordinating Classification matters related to a specific competition according to FEI Para-Equestrian Rules and Classification Manual Liaising with organizing committees and National Federations before a competition to identify and notify athletes who require evaluation of Grade and Grade Status. Liaising with organizing committees before a competition to ensure travel, accommodation and working logistics are provided for Classifiers. Supervising FEI Classifiers to ensure that Classification Rules are applied appropriately during competition. Supervising FEI Classifiers in their duties as members of a Classification Panel and monitoring their level of Classification competencies and proficiencies. Supervising FEI Classifiers and FEI Trainee Classifiers Completing a Competition Report within 14 days of the competition and sending it to the FEI and a copy to the FEI Head of Classification. 9
4. Description of the FEI Education System for Classifiers 4.1 Requirements All Levels Essential Requirements Qualification as a medical practitioner with current authority to practice in the practitioner s home country OR Qualification as a physiotherapist with current authority to practice in practitioner s home country. Experience carrying out assessment with people with physical impairments resulting in activity restrictions. Experience working as part of a team. Commitment to further learning and professional education. Competent, effective use of e-mail in order to liaise and consult with other classifiers in a timely way. Desirable Requirements A sound understanding of equestrian sports, in particular dressage. A knowledge of the physical requirements of riding a horse or driving a carriage. Experience as a rider. 4.2 Entry Level FEI Trainee Classifier Entry Requirements As above Hold current National Classifier accreditation with at least two years clinical work experience as either a medical doctor or physiotherapist and demonstrated leadership as a National Classifier Submits application to FEI to be considered for FEI Trainee Classifier which includes: o Completed FEI Classifier Promotion application form o Brief Curriculum Vitae in English demonstrating commitment to Classification and experience o Copy of Classification log of National Classifier related activities attended and Classifications completed, signed by National Head of Classification where applicable or appropriate NF representative if no National HoC. o Copy of current Authority to Practice within nominated health profession 10
Promotion Requirements to Level 1 FEI Classifier Demonstrates competencies for Level 1 FEI Classifier Completes four Classification assessments with an accredited Level 2 FEI Classifier during at least two FEI Para-Equestrian Events over a period of not greater than 2 years. Provides letter of recommendation from at least one FEI Level 2 International Classifier Maintains a personal log (Appendix 1) of all activities relating to Classification with evidence of practical commitment including events attended and Classifications completed. Demonstrates activities related to being an active National classifier as recorded on the log. Demonstrates leadership within their NFas a National Classifier Criteria to remain listed as a FEI Trainee Classifier Maintains Authority to Practice in home Nation. Demonstrates effort to meet the requirements for promotion to FEI Level 1 Classifier 11
4.3 Level 1 FEI Classifier Entry Requirements As for All Levels Meets competencies for Level 1 FEI Classifier Promotion Requirements Completes at least four Classification assessments with an accredited Level 2 FEI Classifier at one or more FEI Para-Equestrian Events Maintains a personal log of activities relating to Classification with evidence of practical commitment. Criteria to remain listed Maintains Authority to Practice in home Nation. Completes at least four athlete evaluations for FEI Classification over a two year period Attends at least one FEI Para-Equestrian Event as a member of the Classification Panel over a two year period. 4.4 Level 2 FEI Classifier Entry Requirements As for All Levels Meets competencies for Level 2 FEI Classifier Criteria to remain listed Maintains Authority to Practice in home Nation. Maintains competencies required for Level 2 FEI Classifier Completes at least four athlete evaluations for FEI Classification over a two year period. Attends at least one FEI Para-Equestrian Event as a member of the Classification Panel over a two year period. Maintains a personal log of activities relating to Classification with evidence of practical commitment. Optional Attends FEI Classifier Education meeting held every three years. 12
5. Process Step 1 Step 2 Step 3 Request for promotion as an FEI Classifier. In consultation with a more senior classifier (L1 or L2) / mentor review your competencies and Classification experience. Are you consistently exceeding the competencies of your current level? If yes, submit an application through the NF to the FEI for promotion to the next level. If no, review learning and development plan with senior classifier / mentor to identify opportunities to meet the competencies. Step 4 Application reviewed by the FEI Classification panel Promotion recommended. Application submitted to the Para-Equestrian Technical Committee. Promotion deferred. FEI notifies applicant with reasons for deferment. Step 5 Application reviewed by the Para-Equestrian Technical Committee Para-Equestrian Technical Committee approves promotion. FEI notifies applicant. Para-Equestrian Technical Committee defers. FEI notifies applicant with reasons. 6. Removal from and return to list An FEI Classifier of any level may be removed from the FEI Directory for the following reasons: has not complied with the FEI Rules and Regulations loss of professional qualification is no longer licensed in their healthcare profession has chosen to discontinue in their role as a classifier Following removal from the FEI Directory, a Classifier may be reinstated on the list according to conditions set by FEI HQ on a case-by-case basis. 13