Our Lesson Program
Students will be assigned to mounts appropriate to their level of riding and will be matched with other students in age and ability. There is an excellent selection of well-trained horses and ponies and our knowledgeable staff will be on-hand to guide you through the process with care and expertise. All staff coaches at Willow Grove are nationally certified with Equine Canada and the National Coaching Certification Program.
Policies and Procedures:
Each new will receive a "welcome package" which contains information on Willow Grove's policies and procedures. If you have any questions or require clarification on any information contained in the package, please contact us.
Introductory Private Lessons:
We recognize and appreciate that each beginner rider has different needs and goals. Our introductory riding lessons are especially designed for beginner riders of all ages who have no experience with horses. The four (4) introductory 1 ½ hour lessons strike just the right balance between social, educational and physical activities and are a requirement for students wanting to join the school. Each 1 ½ hour is broken down as follows:
- During the first ½ hour, the rider will be in the barn learning barn safety, grooming techniques and how to tack up a horse.
- The second ½ hour will comprise of a riding lesson in the arena and will focus on learning basic riding skills.
- The last ½ hour will concentrate on general horsemanship.
If you've ever thought about getting on a horse but are perhaps a bit apprehensive or nervous, you can be assured that our introductory lesson program is the right choice.
For Intermediate/Advanced Students:
Students with more experience are welcome to join the lesson program and in addition to lessons, are welcome to explore other riding opportunities offered through our leasing program or through joining Team Willow Grove.
Initial Assessment Lesson:
More experienced riders looking to join Willow Grove's lesson program will be asked to complete an initial assessment lesson. During the assessment lesson, we will watch you groom, tack up and ride so that we can assess your level of ability and horsemanship. This assessment will assist staff in assigning the rider to appropriate mounts and lesson groups.
Here's how it works…
- Book and pay for a half hour private assessment lesson. This will give you an opportunity to visit the barn, familiarize yourself with the farm, and meet the horses.
- Have your lesson.
- Receive feedback about your riding and discuss and determine a lesson time that suits your level and schedule.
Assessments are by appointment only, please contact us for details.
Lesson Options:
Lessons are offered throughout the year, seven (7) days a week, and are taught by instructors who are certified through the Alberta Equestrian Federation. Lessons take place in either the indoor arena or when weather permitting, in one of our outdoor sands rings or grass ring.
Private Lessons:
Private lessons are ½ hour long. Private lessons are available to all students but are ideal for beginners as the one-on-one instruction format ensures that the rider gets the attention they need during this critical time of learning.
Group Lessons:
Group lessons are 1 hour long. Group lessons are available to all students but are ideal for novice or more experienced riders. There are a maximum of 6 riders in a group lesson which ensures that riders get the attention they need but also get time to practice their skills.
Lessons are non-refundable and non-transferable and single or 'one-time' lessons are not available. Lesson packages are available for each month and all make-up lessons must be completed within the month of purchase.
Click here for lesson pricing.
Arrival Time:
Riders are expected to arrive at least 30 minutes prior to the start of the lesson to allow time to groom and tack up their horse. A Willow Grove staff member is always present to assist riders who need help tacking up their horse however; it is the rider's responsibility to have their horse ready and prepared for their lesson before the lesson time starts.
What Equipment is Required
| - Approved Riding Helmet |  |
| - Riding Chaps |  |
| - Boots with a heel |  |
| - Crop |
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| - Gloves are recommended |  |
