Pony Pals

11/05/2024

Rollin' into Tuesday with a smile! Hope your day is just as awesome!

04/07/2024

Job Opening: Licensed Horseback Riding Instructor/Substitute**

Location: Pony Pals Riding Academy, Littleton, Massachusetts

Position Type: Part-time (with potential for full-time) and Substitute

Pony Pals Riding Academy, located at Larkspur Farm in Littleton, Massachusetts, is seeking a licensed horseback riding instructor to join our team. We cater to riders of all levels, from beginners to intermediates, encompassing both children and adults. We are also in search of a licensed substitute instructor to provide coverage when needed.

Responsibilities:

- Provide comprehensive horseback riding instruction to students of various skill levels, focusing on safety, proper technique, and enjoyment.
- Conduct group lessons as well as private sessions tailored to individual needs.
- Develop and implement lesson plans that cater to the diverse needs and abilities of our riders.
- Foster a positive and supportive learning environment that promotes growth and confidence.
- Ensure the well-being and care of horses before, during, and after lessons.
- Maintain a clean and organized riding facility.
- Must be ok working with kids as young as 5

Requirements:

- Must hold a valid license as a horseback riding instructor in Massachusetts.
- Prior experience teaching riders of all levels, from beginners to intermediates, is preferred.
- Strong communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to effectively instruct and motivate students.
- Passion for horses and equestrian sports, with a commitment to promoting a love for riding among students.
- Ability to work flexible hours, including evenings and weekends.
- Willingness to collaborate with colleagues and contribute to the overall success of Pony Pals Riding Academy.

Additional Information:

- Part-time position with the potential for full-time hours based on demand.
- Competitive compensation commensurate with experience.
- Opportunity to work in a supportive and collaborative environment with a team dedicated to excellence in equestrian education.

If you are a licensed horseback riding instructor with a passion for teaching and a love for horses, we encourage you to apply. To express your interest in joining the Pony Pals Riding Academy team, please submit your resume and a cover letter detailing your relevant experience and qualifications to [email protected]

We look forward to hearing from you soon!

02/20/2024

We are so grateful for our amazing lesson horses and ponies. ❤️

Thank your lesson horse

In this industry, we all too often see the average lesson horse viewed as lesser than or below other horses. Yet, they have the hardest job of any horse.

They do not complain when an unbalanced first time rider mounts for their lesson. They are a calming force for the most timid of riders, promising safety and security. They are patient and kind, allowing riders to grow and evolve in a safe space without fear of making mistakes.

They take the brunt of your “bad day” emotions, without complaint, even though the negative emotions should not be taken out on them in the first place. They would have every right to not perform or act out, yet they are gracious enough to be a shoulder to cry on.

They have the remarkable ability to sense your insecurities and needs, and provide you with the exact ride you need for the day. To teach the lessons you need in that moment, lessons you didn’t even know you needed to learn.

Even on the frustrating days, “when the lesson horse isn’t listening,” they don’t take your accusations to heart. They continue on with their masterful plans to instill humility, critical thinking, and grace in their partner - and you will finally understand that they’re always listening, and they’re always right.

And when you finally graduate to your own fancier horse, take a moment to think of all the lesson horses who brought you to this milestone. They gave you the knowledge, ability, and skill to be where you are right now. And they gave you their heart and soul in the process.

So next time you see a lesson horse, thank them. Give them a pat and a peppermint, a warm hug, and a promise to treat them with respect - for they are the backbone of this industry, and the foundation for all future equestrians.

12/17/2023

Love a good Mare!! Even when they are doing their best dragon impressions

The often seen, frequently experienced, but rarely photographed Dragon Mare!
Thank you Sh*teventer!