Riding school question

[Leesar]

I have only ever ridden at one riding school, which I started at on recommendation of another person. However, for a comparison I booked in another riding school for one lesson. The facilities were not as good as the school I'm currently at, but the instructor seemed really nice and encouraging (which I need!!). The horse I rode was their biggest and was great. She was far more receptive than I'm used to, I just had to slightly squeeze with my calves to get her to canter!!. At the same time the horse was fairly calm and her canter was so smooth. I thought she was great. However, should I be put off by the fact they did not have a mounting block, no one took my details down ie in case of an accident etc, and no one asked if I wanted to book again? They did however ask me questions about my riding experience. Any opinions would be greatly appreciated.

[Leesar]

Just to add that both the schools above are BHS certified.

[Jay]

Hello Leesar

It's probably difficult to tell much from only having one lesson but if I were you I'd go with the one where you feel happiest. Incidently I've never had my details taken down in case of an accident nor used mounting block. Could you maybe spend a day at each helping out? This would give you an 'inside' view on things.

Jay

[Gilly]

Hi Leesa, I attend a BHS riding school and altho' they use mounting blocks, have never had my details taken down either. I felt that perhaps they ought to have this information as another school that my young daughter attended, did actually do this and it just gives the impression that they are on the ball and concerned with safety measures. However, if you are happy with the instruction and what you see that goes around you plus treatment towards the horses, then stay with them. It is good tho' to shop around and try various places out. I did this and finally settled where I am after trying about 3 places.

[holly-wood]

I would definitly go to the school that had the instructor I "clicked" with best . Not everyone is the same, so it stands to reason that not everyone learns the same, or works well under the same style of teaching. There are few things better than finding a teacher you understand and who understands you.

I finally got my drivers licence last year (I'm 30, how embarassing). I went through 3 different instructors and I thought I'd never learn how to drive (I was always REALLY nervous and I didn't feel safe). But I kept trying and the fourth instructor was different - I understood what she was teaching me. I got my licence, and now I actually LIKE driving, and (surprise surprise) I'm actually a good, confident, safe, driver! So this is all just ment to illustrate the importance of finding a teacher that suits YOU.

As far as the facilities? Some people have less money than others. As long as the place is kept up enough to be safe - I wouldn't let it bother me. I like nice people better than fancy surroundings!

I don't know why they didn't ask about your experience - but some intructors like to judge for themselves. And as far as asking for your details I have a BIG TIP for everyone - it's always good to carry a note with emergency numbers anyway (if you have no pockets stick it in your helmet or boot)! Especially out hacking.

Why didn't anyone ask if you wanted to book another lesson? Maybe they have more horse-sence than business-sence.

Good luck - Holly (from Canada)

[Leesar]

Thanks for your replies.

Holly-wood - sorry I didn't make it clear, but they did ask me about my riding experience, which I think is reassuring. In a way I think the instructors seem nicer, or more suited to me, so I think I'll try this other school again.

Cheers.

[holly-wood]

Whoops - I read that part wrong

[Jaz]

I have riden at my current riding school for years. They dont have the best facilities on offer but everyone there is really friendly and I get on with them really well. I have been to other riding schools from time to time. I was on work experience in one, they had fabulus facilities indoor school loads of fabulus horses. They have waiting lists of people wanting lessons there. But all the people who worked there B**tched about each other all day and made me feel really uncomfortable. They were all realy impatient with the horses and would get a smack for virtualy no reason. The instructors were ok but a bit impatient and I didn't really click with them. I much prefer my riding school where everyone is more laid back and friendly and patient. My riding is constantly improving they treat every one individualy. :)