Judging
The Highland Pony Society maintains a panel of approved judges who are trained to assess Highland Ponies according to the breed standard. Learn about the judging process and how to become an approved judge.
Judging Standards
Highland Ponies are judged according to the official breed standard, which describes the ideal characteristics of the breed. Judges assess each pony on several key criteria:
The breed standard emphasises that the Highland Pony should be presented naturally, without trimming or artificial enhancement. Judges give preference to ponies that best exemplify the true characteristics of the breed.
HPS Judges Panel
The Highland Pony Society operates a panel of approved judges. Show organisers hosting affiliated HPS classes must use judges from the Panel to ensure consistent and fair assessment of ponies.
The Panel includes judges with varying levels of experience, categorised to reflect their qualifications and expertise. This system helps maintain high standards across all affiliated shows.
Current Panel Judges
Show organisers — the up-to-date list of approved Panel judges is available to download below.
Download Panel Judges listBecoming a Highland Pony Judge
The Highland Pony Society welcomes applications from experienced Highland Pony enthusiasts who wish to become approved judges. The pathway to becoming a judge involves training, practical experience, and assessment.
The Pathway to Approval
Gain Experience
Build experience with Highland Ponies through showing, breeding, stewarding at affiliated and unaffiliated shows, and judging at unaffiliated level or for other breed panels. A thorough understanding of the breed standard is essential.
How to Apply
Complete the Judge Application Form. Applicants must be proposed and seconded by a fully paid-up HPS member. The form captures proposer and seconder details alongside your supporting statement.
Attend Training
Complete the HPS judging training programme, including practical assessments and breed standard workshops.
Probationary Period
Judge alongside approved Panel judges at affiliated shows to gain practical experience and receive feedback.
Full Approval
Upon successful completion, receive full approval to judge Highland Ponies at affiliated shows.
Requirements for Aspiring Judges
- Fully paid-up HPS membership continuously for at least 5 consecutive years prior to application
- Significant experience with Highland Ponies (showing, breeding, or ownership)
- Stewarding and/or judging experience at unaffiliated level or for other breed panels
- Thorough knowledge of the breed standard
- A proposer and seconder — both fully paid-up HPS members
- Commitment to attending training sessions and workshops
- Willingness to travel to shows within your region
Related Information
Judging Enquiries
For questions about judging, the approved judges panel, or becoming a judge, please contact the Society office.
Telephone
01764 664 000
Monday – Friday, 10am – 4pm (open to visitors Tues – Thurs)
Address
Highland Pony Society
Garbh Allt House
Maidenplain Place
Aberuthven
Perthshire PH3 1EL