Introduction to Riding

An 8-week Learn to Ride & Horse Care programme (BHS Challenge Awards)

Start Date: Thursday 6th November 2025 at 5.30pm
Duration: 8 weeks
For ages: 13+

About the Course

Our Introduction to Horses course blends 45 minutes riding and 45 minutes horse care each week, following the official BHS Challenge Awards (Introduction to Riding & Introduction to Horse Care). You’ll be supported by a coach and an arena assistant throughout, making it perfect for complete beginners and returners alike.

What You’ll Learn 

🐎 Riding – Introduction to Riding

• Preparing yourself and your horse to ride

• Mounting safely with assistance; correct position in walk

• Using reins and basic aids for walk and halt

• Simple school figures & changes of rein in walk

• Rising trot and developing balance & security

• Safe dismount and basic aftercare

🐴 Horse Care – Introduction to Horse Care

• Yard safety: what to wear, spotting hazards, reporting accidents

• Basic hygiene on the yard

• Reading horse behaviour: relaxed, alert, threatened

• Identifying types/colours & key points of the horse

• The five welfare needs & signs of good health

• Feeding basics, safe treats, hay vs haylage vs straw

Course Suitability

This course is most suitable for riders up to:

• 72 kg (11st 5lb)

(All course horses are under 16hh to allow our assistants to keep up safely on foot.)

👉 Riders up to 85 kg (13st 5lb) are welcome in private lessons.

Prices & Payment

💷 Course Fee (8 weeks):

• £400
•  
• Can be paid in 2 instalments of £200

📘 Enrolment Fee: £25
Covers your official BHS Challenge Award books.

🦺 Safety Equipment Hire (FREE for your first course):

• Riding hat & body protector hire normally £5 per week (£40 total)

• ✅ Save £40 when you join you join this course!

• Hire available for future courses if needed.

👕 Beginner Starter Pack (optional add-on at checkout):
Riding boots, jodhpurs, and gloves — the basic clothing you’ll want to start comfortably.
👉 See our full guide: What to Wear for Riding

📅 First session: Thursday 6th November 2025

How to Book

1. Complete your Rider Registration Form

2. Once your rider profile is approved for booking, go to the course start date on the calendar under Make a Booking and follow the booking process.

   • Optional: select the Beginner Starter Pack add-on at checkout.

3. Join us to begin your Introduction to Horses journey!

👉 Complete Rider Registration Form