Introduced in 1964 by Canon Peter Booth, the The Hurstpierpoint College National Schools and Pony Club Championships is a highlight of the amateur equestrian calendar, attracting schools and pony clubs from across the British Isles. Every year hundreds of youngsters flock to Hickstead hoping to qualify to jump on the hallowed ground of the world-famous International Arena. Staged annually as the finale to our horse show season, young equestrians are given the chance to jump in the very ring that they have watched their heroes battle it out in just days before.

The Hurstpierpoint College National Schools Jumping Championship is split into a junior and senior division, and the Pony Club teams have to qualify for the championships through a tough series of qualifiers. Many top international riders, from every discipline, have competed in the championship and even the Duchess of York has given it a try!

It is one of the Hickstead team's favourite days of the year, as the broad beaming smiles make the whole season's hard work worth it.