Riding Levels

Level One: Students will learn to mount, correctly adjust their equipment and begin work at the walk and trot, learning basic control signals. Some lessons will include basic barn procedures such as haltering and removing tack.

Level Two: Riders will work to improve their position at the walk and trot and be introduced to the canter. Work over cavalettis will be introduced. Riders at this level should be able to bridle a horse and adjust tack when it is necessary.

Level Three: At this level riders are now able to be assigned their own horse. With their assigned horse, riders will work perfecting their position on the flat and will be introduced to jumping. There will be opportunities to leave the ring for games and trail rides.

Level Four: The ability to start working a horse “on the aides” is a prerequisite for this level. Riders will learn to jump courses and work over fences outside of the ring. Riders are expected to keep their horses trimmed and turned out properly.

Level Five: Emphasis at this level switches from rider development to horse development and training. Riders should be capable of working young horses on the flat and over fences. Riders at this level are expected to display leadership skills.

Level Six: Independent Study. While continuing to work in lessons and compete with the program, riders may pursue individual areas of interest.