RIDING

INSTRUCTOR
A riding instructor instructs students in horsemanship and specific riding skills to prepare them
competitions and events. They show their students a variety of method and styles until they find the
one best suited for the student and horses ability. They assist their students at home as well as
shows. Lessons can be taught in private or group lessons.

YOUR RESPONSIBILITIES:
-Teaching general horsemanship skills.
-Teaching students to ride in groups or individual lessons.
-Working through behavioral issues.
-Preparing riders for competition & shows.
-Competition / show planning, enrollment and organizing.
-Accompanying riders to competitions & shows.
-Coaching during competitions & shows.
-Daily operations of the barn.
-Care, exercise & behavior of lesson horses.
-Scheduling of lessons.

SKILLS AND ABILITIES

-Have a patient attitude.
-Good communication skills.
-Good horsemanship skills and experience.
-Ability to motivate and supervise people.
-Be calm in stressful situations.
-Have first aid skills.

TRAINING & EDUCATION

The education needed varies on the level of riders you would like to train. In reality, you
do not need any schooling to become an instructor but the bigger and more successful
barn will require schooling. You can acquire a coaching major in the equine science
programs.
The coaching programs allow you to become a certified Equine Canada instructor. There
are four semesters worth of classes for this program as well as a practicum.

FOR MORE INFORMATION

Both Olds College and Colorado State University that specializes in equine science both
offer coaching courses.

Olds College

Colorado State University

Contact: 403-556-8281
http://www.oldscollege.ca/

Contact: 970-491-8373
http://equinescience.agsci.colostate.edu/