Equestrian Canada, our country’s governing body for all things-horses, has devised a Rider Level Program where riders are tested in their stable management and riding skills. There are 8 levels, with RL 8 being necessary for coaching qualifications. At Centaur we hold preparation classes for the varying levels, as well as hold exams.

Additional Information for 2020:

• RL1 to 4 Information
• Sign-up Study Group
• Rider Level Exam Sign-up

During the spring months, Theory Courses on varying subjects are held at Centaur Riding School.

Occasionally, theory classes are taught on a variety of subjects ranging from riding theory to horse topics like health, conformation, care, etc. This class is free for full-time students.

Students are taught in great detail how to present themselves in competition. Click Here for more information.

This is where the children learn how to approach a horse, put a halter on a horse, lead a horse, tie a horse in the crossties, groom a horse using all the different brushes, pick out a horse’s feet, sweep their work area, organize all the necessary equipment they will need for their horse, saddle a horse, bridle a horse, lead it to the indoor arena, unsaddle, unbridle, put a horse away in his stall after riding. The equipment varies from horse to horse, so this is an additional challenge. The children are encouraged to learn how to perform all these skills while staying focused and managing their time efficiently. At first, the children are paired up, as they get better, they will get their own horse to prepare.

In the arena, HFY students learn:

• The protocols and rules for safe riding in a group;
• the fundamentals of English equitation;
• how to identify and maintain safe distances between horses on the ground and at the walk;
• how to prepare to mount/dismount;
• how to get on/off the horse correctly; to adjust the stirrup length; hold and shorten the reins; steer at the walk; and to begin following the horse’s motion at the trot, both posting and sitting.

Basic school figures are taught. Some lessons are spent learning about ground work, and other days may be spent on a longe line, or learning gymnastics on horseback. Safety is always emphasized.

Safety is stressed at all times around and on horses. Parents as well as young siblings will be asked to follow certain procedures.

A maximum of 12 children are accepted, with two instructors, plus assistants. This class is split for the riding portion.

Children from age 7 and up are accepted into this program.

Class is traditionally held Saturday morning, first lesson. (Earliest start time would be 8:00 am. Start time is decided depending on number of participants.)

Parents are welcome to wait in the Lounge during inclement weather, where they can watch the riding through the windows, or at the picnic tables during nice weather. We prefer that the parents not accompany their children into the stable area, nor the riding arena. We have found the children focus better without distractions.

On occasion we will hold a Parents’ Day when the parents are welcomed into the stables and indoor arena to observe their children. We want to show you what your children have been learning and the progress they are making. This will be your chance to ask any questions directly to the coaches.

We keep a binder in the tack room where notes are taken in regards to the students’ progress in the stables. Parents are welcome to look through this binder.

The Mini Equestrians program is designed for riders between the age of 3 to 8 years old.

This program is an introduction to the world of horses and riding. Your child will learn the basics of horse handling, grooming and riding in a fun and safe atmosphere. A great way to build confidence, develop a relationship with a horse or pony, and to start on the life-long journey of equestrianism.

Parents will join their child in learning the in-stable basics. Parents will learn how to properly lead the ponies/horses while their child learns to ride. Parents (or other adult) must participate for the entire class. Please wear stable-appropriate clothing including safe footwear – no open-toed sandals. We would ask that a maximum of two adults participate in this program.

Beginners with no experience are accepted. First lessons may be done privately.

On occasion the regular lesson is extended to include an extra learning activity and finishes with an informal pot-luck lunch where all things horsey are discussed.

It can be difficult to find opportunities for riders to fine-tune their feel on more advanced horses. When available, having lessons on these horses presents a unique opportunity.

The Fancies include Dark Velvet, 2014 Ontario Second Level Champion, and Rocky Raccoon, 2017 Ontario Silver Champion Fourth level.

• New riders with past riding experience
• New riders with zero riding experience
• Past Centaur riders who had to put riding on hold for a while
• Regular Centaur riders who want the extra mileage to perfect their skills

Cost is discounted from regular lesson price. Check our Price List for current pricing information.

There is no need to pre-register or commit to a session. You can simply email that day to find out if there is room. Classes may have many participants, or just one!

Centaur’s regular students who have taken part in these classes have greatly benefited and were surprised at how much they learned despite the size of the class and variety of riders. The instructors also have noticed a positive change in the riding skills of all riders.

Try it out! It will give you more time in the saddle perfecting your position and learning new school figures. And if you have friends who want to try out riding, it’s the perfect way to start, without breaking the bank account!