Lesson Program Information
The progressive lesson program with Exceptional Equine has been developed by Samantha Dilworth. Samantha Dilworth (Sam) has an extensive back ground with top equestrian coaches and is an Equine Assisted Learning Facilitator with Level 3 Advanced Certification through Cartier Farms and Dream winds. These lesson programs are developed to create a connection between horse and people that take into account the physical, mental, spiritual and emotional need for both as individuals making it possible for both horse and rider to advance to their highest level. Sam’s unique horsemanship is developed from using natural horsemanship, learning on release, and understanding of equine psychology, looking at the horse and rider individually and as a whole. Lesson Horses are available!! From Toddlers to Adults, we have a program for you. Read below for descriptions on our classes & levels.
**** WINTER LESSON ***
**Because of our Harsh Winters Lessons will be Canceled with Temperatures below -25 and for Hazardous Road Conditions**
***Please contact Sam before heading out***
ALL RIDERS UNDER THE AGE OF 16 ARE REQUIRED TO WEAR A CERTIFIED RIDING HELMET
ALL RIDERS ARE REQUIRED TO HAVE BC HORSE COUNCIL BC INSURANCE OR EQUIVALENT.
ALL RIDERS ARE REQUIRED TO WEAR PROPER CLOSED TOE FOOT WEAR WITH A HEEL
Lesson Descriptions
Lil Britches Riding Levels (ages 4 to 7)
Designed especially for kids ages 4 through 7, Lil Britches Riding begins to explore basic horsemanship skills; grooming, tacking, leading & basic stable management. While still parented, these riders begin developing the correct position, balance, and aid (cues to ask the horse to do something) through basic arena exercises & games. The slightly longer class time helps to expand attention spans, while still keeping within a reasonable time frame for young minds to stay interested and having fun!
Class Length: 1.5 hours
** One parent per child required.
Lesson Levels 1-4 (ages 8 and up)
Level 1
Perfect for the brand new horse enthusiast or those who maybe rode "a long time ago". Level 1 takes you through all of the horse basics; safety, grooming, tacking, proper handling & body language. In the saddle you will explore concepts at the walk & trot (once you're ready!); correct riding position, proper cues, arena figures, relaxation & rhythm and more!
Level 2
For riders who have completed Level 1 or have the equivalent amount of experience from another horse adventures. Level 2 begins on horsemanship principles of horse psychology, more in depth herd behavior, basic health care & stable management. In the saddle, students will be putting more emphasis into the trot, working towards developing independent aids (cues to the horse), riding the bend, working with obstacles, balance, rhythm & relaxation.
Level 3
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For the rider who is ready (or has been) Loping and has graduated Level 2 or equivalent experience. Level 3 begins exploring the concept of extension and collection, sequencing cues, getting full body control, introducing patterns, obstacles to maintain balance, rhythm & relaxation
Level 4
For the Level 3 graduate or riders with equivalent experience & understanding of concepts. Level 4 takes the previous levels concepts and begins working towards completing the picture through achieving proper and true collection. Working up through the Training Scale (or pyramid) of classical riding is emphasized. Start adding a controlled increase in pace, using patterns and obstacles. Furthering our extension and collection with full quadrant control, and problem specific corrections.
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What do I need to have to take riding lessons? You will require an ASTM/SEI certified riding helmet & a pair of boots with a 1/4 to 1/2 inch heel. Membership to BC horse Council or equivalent for insurance purposes.
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Do I have to catch and tack my own horse?All students start out with having their horse caught for them by a TA (Teaching Assistant). Students are required to assist in tacking, under the supervision of a TA. As the student progresses, they'll be allowed to do more things on their own until they're able to catch and tack their horse with minimal supervision.
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Do I need to supply my own horse or equipment?, Lesson horses are available and tack will be supplied for those horses. If you have a saddle we would happily take a look and see if it will fit your lesson horse.
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Do you have a weight restriction for your lesson horses? Yes, we cannot accommodate anyone over 250lbs to take part in our riding lesson. At the Stable's discretion, other body types may be unable to partake in classes due to safety and balance issues. We appreciate your understanding of this matter and for keeping our horses health in mind. We can however direct you into our Ground Work and Liberty Lessons
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Will I be riding every week? Yes and please be saddled and ready to go 20min before lesson. ( only exceptions will be below -20 or road conditions)
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Where will my lesson be?Lessons are at Exceptional Equine’s Experiential Learning Center in Farmington, BC a 140x70 indoor arena.
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What about missed lessons? If you give 8 hours notice, we'll give you a credit towards the next lesson. You can only receive 1 credit per 6 lesson pre payment. If you give less than 8 hours notice or no notice there's no credit. If we have to cancel a class, we will offer a make up class. No refunds. If you specify at time of registration days of unavailability those days will be put into credits.
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Registration & Payment: Payment plans and multiple payment methods are available for your convenience. Lessons are billed by the session - each session is a different number of weeks which influences the total cost. Cancellations are accepted up to two weeks (14days) before the program start date for a refund less deposit. No exceptions
Workbooks and Journals
All students are given a workbook that is designed specifically for their level.