Questions to ask when wanting an instructor.

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SonnysHumanSlave

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Right well have looked through the Bhs site and picked out some people to call.

I need someone to come and teach me on ted as we are getting no where.

Now I have never had instruction out of riding school... So what should I ask when calling these people up??

I know what I want, flat work to x-country lessons and that they must be qualified etc, which they all are. Oh and prices lol.

That's sort of where it ends with what to ask, so any suggestions please.

Many thanks :)
 
What experience do they have in each of the disciplines?
Do the have a travel expenses fee on top of the lesson fee?
 
You can ask what they enjoy teaching... should give you an idea if they really like nervous beginners/competitive teens/kids/those returning to riding and what disciplines etc.

Oh, and when they do come out make sure it is a one-off initially so you don't feel 'locked in' and see how they are with both you and horse.
 
I'd suggest asking if they are insured and have a first aid qualification (anyone on the BHS register should do, but just check, and if you go with someone not on the register then its more important to find out, I know a number of people who think they are covered to teach on their normal horse insurance or ordinary BHS membership which is not true). Then I'd want to see what they asked me - they should be interested in finding out what you've done before, what you want to do, how long you've had horse and his history, injury or illness issues for either of you that need to be taken into account, etc. Then I'd just get on with having a trial lesson to see if you get on with the instructor both personally and with regard to the style of instruction they have and the content of the lesson.
 
Oh didnt think about insurance, it still applys if teaching me on mine then?

I have found someone now, she is coming to give me a trial lesson, is BHSAI and NVQ assesor, has references, and own horses, has BE and BSJA, Happy to come school me if a hire a venue also (eg X-country)

She asked me loads of questions about Ted and me, so all looks very good. Shall check out the insurance thing.

Thanks.

Im all excited now.

:)
 
I also want to check whether or not they're happy to ride my horse for me, and how they deal with lack of confidence.
 
I think you also need to set out right in the beggining exactly what you want to achieve, for you and your horse, so they know exactly what their goal is. That way there is no confusion and you'll get what you want and need.

I once had an instuctor and we would spend lessons after lesson doing things I really didn't want/need to do because I hadn't clearly stated what my goals were.

My instructor now understands completely what both mine and my horses needs are, and works on them. She also works on what our goals are... i.e, if you wanted over to achieve 60% in a prelim dressage test by the end of the year etc.

Good luck, hope you find a great one!! :)
 
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