Riding school recommendations

[Allnamesaretaken]

Hi. I’d like to find a reputable riding school. I’m asking for recommendations as I’ve read about the trials and tribulations with substandard instructors and don’t want to end up with one of those. Not being experience I’m not sure I’d spot one at the outset. I’m in mid west wales, between Lampeter and Aberystwyth. TIA

 

[Shay]

You don't have a massive amount of choice around you to be honest - and poor quality instructors crop up from time to time in even the best schools. Try for a school which is BHS approved - or even better a BHS test Center. There are not all perfect - but at least they are inspected and required to teach to a set standard.

 

[Allnamesaretaken]

Thanks Shay. As you say there don’t seem many around which I’m quite surprised about in a place where a lot of people have land and horses. I’ll give the one at Aberystwyth a call. Are there any specific questions I should ask to get a good idea of whether they are a good choice? Thanks

 

[TheOldTrout]

Is it near enough for you to call in person rather than phone? Might give you a better impression of what they're like.

 

[Allnamesaretaken]

I thought about dropping in as I was up there today but I wasn’t sure whether that would be welcomed.

 

[Shay]

Its a business. If they want your custom they'll welcome you.

 

[Allnamesaretaken]

Thanks for the reassurance. I’ll drop in one day next week 😄

 

[The Fuzzy Furry]

Check the BHS site for riding schools in your area & also with the councils locally as they will hold lists of inspected and licenced RS's.
That said, the latter isn't always a receipe for getting a good school, but will at least give you some to visit

 

[Allnamesaretaken]

Oh thank you. I checked the BHS site and found one that does instruction and examination (which I read was a good sign?) but didn’t know that about the council. I’ll do that thank you. Are exams a good thing do do or are they unnecessary for someone who just wants to hack do you think?

 

[The Fuzzy Furry]

I'd leave exams till you are confident in the saddle at 3 paces and popping a small jump, tho taking up stable management lessons after a few weeks will really help in the long run. Re-visit the thought of exams once you've got going
Yes, if a RS trains for BHS exams, then you ought to be on the right route in having lessons there

 

[Allnamesaretaken]

Thanks so much for your really useful advice. I’m so excited. And yes I think stable management would be extremely beneficial too.