The first lesson is always a ground lesson, if they get on a horse put them up bareback on lead line.   I call this lesson Orientation and it’s only 30 minutes long.  Orientation is a safety lesson, grooming and leading lesson.  Show them the barn, the horses, the tack room, the bathroom, show them how to halter the horse, lead the horse etc.  See the safety manual on the Educational Page for a head start on this lesson!  

Level I riders are those who are just starting out.  They need to build a good solid foundation here.  They will learn ground work such as safety, grooming, tacking up and leading.  They should learn mounting, dismounting and basic control at the walk.   They should ride bareback at the walk and on a lead during their first ride (or two) to feel the horses back move and trust their balance.  Trotting should be in hand, on the long side of the rail only or on lunge line.  Graduates can show in lead line and walk classes.  Should be able to go on safe trail without a lead line. 

Prerequisite for Level II:  The student should be able to lead, tie and tack up a horse or pony fairly independently.  Have independent hands and complete control at a walk demonstrating a pattern with a stop and turns in it.  Be able to trot on lunge without holding on.  The student should be able to answer questions on leg position, heals, hands, tack, grooming equipment and horse safety. 

Level II riders will pick a discipline.  They are learning to trot independently.  Will go back to Lunge Line to learn independent hands at a trot.  Level II riders will learn how to properly cue for the trot and leg position in turns.  Can learn turn on forehand to prep for lead control later.  Learn the difference between jog and trot.  Learn to sit a trot as well as post and when to do it.  Will learn lots of patterns and start show ring etiquette.  Level II riders will also start to canter down the long rail in a straight line.  Level II riders should be able to do trail rides outside off property.   Level II graduates can show Walk Trot classes. 

Prerequisite for Level III:  The Student should be able to tack up and ride independently.  They should be able to demonstrate a simple pattern that requires trotting a circle, figure 8, stopping and backing up.  They should be able to answer questions about tack, moving the horse off pressure, different cues, show ring, trail riding safety, etc.

Level III riders will learn how to navigate tricky patterns, learn dressage tests and a jump course if they want.  The student will learn to sit the canter.  They will learn rein contact and how to get some collection in the horse. The student will learn to how negotiate poles and cross rails and even the trail course. 

Level III students can be leaders on trail, show walk trot and canter as well as jumping if qualified.  If age appropriate, can assist Level I and Level II teachers with ground work.