Riding lessons – what to know / what to expect
Welcome to Brookson Farm!
Whether you’re a new client or a returning client, here are some things to keep in mind to know for your first lesson!
New clients
When you arrive for your lesson, please park outside the large barn. Other cars should be parked there as well. Enter the main barn doors, walk down the aisle and through the door on the right. In the tack up room you will find either your instructor or their assistant who will show you around and assist you in getting ready for your lesson.
Assessment lessons are 45 min private lessons. Riders will be assessed on their current Riding level to judge where you best fit in the riding program. A few lessons may be needed to catch up to your ideal class if you have taken a break from riding. Your instructor will briefly touch base with you regarding the best ways to proceed. You will get an email with your rider level and how to self book lessons in our portal.
How we operate
● Lessons are self booked and self managed in our rider portal. You simply request lessons packages as you need them and book your lessons. There is no expiry to lessons in your bank.
● Riders must be ready to enter the ring by the start of their lesson time. Riders capable of tacking up (Level 2 and more) should arrive approx 30 min prior to their start time to tack up their horse. We encourage you to arrive 20 min prior if you are learning to tack up.
● Before you enter the arena and before you leave the barn, we ask that you sweep your crossties to allow for a clean space for the next rider.
● Any “presents” your horse may leave for you, in the crossties, stall or arena, we ask that you pick it up promptly and dispose into the wheelbarrows (one in arena, one behind back of barn) Tiny Riders are not expected to do this, although they are expected to learn about caring for our horses.
● Each horse has their own tack. Each horse has a labelled bridle, martingale, girth, saddle and halter. Please make sure all tack is put back on appropriate hooks for assigned horses. We ask that students rinse the bit, clean the leather and wrap the bridle after their ride.
● When you walk through any doors in the barn, you must call out “DOOR” in case any horses are on the other side of the door.
● Please be aware, no lesson time will be reserved without payment.
● Please take a moment to review our makeup policy on our website. Should you require a makeup lesson, we require 24 hour notice (fee applicable otherwise) and a makeup request (through our website) must be booked within 30 days of a missed lesson.
● While your child is in their lesson, it is important their attention is on the instructor, they will know how to keep your child learning in a safe environment. Please refrain from adding commentary to your child during the riding portion of the lesson.
Things to keep in mind around horses
● Please no screaming, running or rambunctious behaviour at the farm
● Appropriate footwear is required to ride (boots with a small defined heel)
● Appropriate footwear is required to be around the horses (closed toe shoes, no open shoes)
● Never walk behind a horse
● At Brookson Farm, we encourage a positive, safe environment. Never take your frustration out on your horse
● Never go into any of the paddocks, this is the horses private space and herd behaviour is in play.
● Never touch any horse that isn’t in the riding program. Always ask before touching a horse. This includes any horses in paddocks or in stalls.
● Please do not hesitate to reach out for any questions, either to our team or your instructor. We are thrilled to have you with us! Enjoy your lesson! 🙂