05/16/2024
I’ve been getting lots of questions about our lesson program so thought I’d make a little FAQ to help answer your questions!
How long is the program/how much do I have to commit?
There is no specific length of time that you need to commit to riding, which is great if you just want to give it a try! The first lesson is paid separately and you can choose to continue after. Then lessons are paid for at the beginning of each month for one month (4-5 lessons) of riding. I’ll work with you to find a time slot that will work for both of us that you then commit to each week that month (I do have a policy for make up lessons as I understand life (and weather) happens). You choose before each month whether you want to continue the following month, so you can ride for one month, three months, or forever! (Seriously, you could get hooked for life 😉)
When do lessons start?
I have a couple lessons on the go now, however our program is officially opening in full in June, so you can sign up for a June start or anytime after! There is no specific start date, you start when you’re ready.
Do lessons run all year?
While many larger schooling barns are able to offer year-round lessons, we do not have an indoor arena so lessons will run until the end of October, possibly November if the weather cooperates. An indoor arena is on the wish list so hopefully some day we will be able to offer lessons year round!
What happens during a lesson?
Lessons are one hour long and include learning how to handle your horse, groom, and tack up. This takes roughly 20-30 minutes, and the remaining time is spent riding. New riders will spend time learning how to properly sit in the saddle, steer, and get a feel for a trot. As you progress our lessons include cantering and jumping if that is something you are interested in. Once you/your child are comfortable grooming and tacking up on your own, you may show up 30 minutes early to your lesson to get your horse ready by yourself, then your hour lesson will be dedicated to riding time.
What do I need to bring for lessons?
You/your child will need a helmet (bike or similar is fine to start but you will eventually need a proper riding helmet if you choose to continue), as well as boots with a minimum 1 inch heel (most rain boots are fine, many people ride in their blundstones), and always long pants, never shorts.
Can I bring treats for the horses?
Absolutely! Horses love apples, carrots, and sugar cubes, as well as treats that can be purchased from Feeds n Needs, a Co-Op Country Store, or tack shop. However please always ask before feeding any horses as they may have dietary restrictions.
Can my family/friends come to watch?
They certainly can! However everyone must wear close-toed shoes (no sandals) to be around the horses.
What is the cost?
$40+HsT for a group lesson ($160+HsT/month) (up to 2 people)
$50+HsT for a private lesson ($200+HsT/month)
What times do lessons run?
Currently I am running lessons Sundays, Mondays, and Tuesdays, and I am able to be flexible to find a time that works for both of us. There is only one slot currently left available for Sundays so message me ASAP if you were thinking about Sunday lessons.
And as always, never hesitate to message me if you have any other questions!
There is also a lesson page on our website as well that you can monitor for any changes.
www.NorthWindEquestrian.ca
