(See also WHO ARE WE?)

BREAKING

All types of horses and ponies (from about 13hh) are taken to break and school at the centre.  Horses and ponies are taken from the age of approximately 3 years upwards and we ask for an honest background of what they have done - warts and all!  The basic ground work is undertaken by the old bones of the yard - Patsy.  Once the horses are working confidently and well to voice in tack (both on the lunge and long reins) the horses are backed by Hazel.  When they are riding quietly in both arenas and around the farm they are hacked out, carefully introduced to all types of traffic whilst being accompanied by a bombproof 'nanny'.  Sometimes clients request no further education than this whilst others prefer they stay and together with hacking learn the basics in the school.  This is often governed by the age of the horse as well as his physical strength and maturity of mind.

Clients often ask how long the whole procedure takes.  Well, we like to crack on!  As long as they have been well handled and depending on the individual, if they are sensible and physically mature enough for the work, we are usually on their backs in about a week to 10 days and hacking out by the end of the 2nd to 3rd week.  The horses are worked everyday and very soon learn what is being asked of them.  Nervous horses can take longer and are given as much time as needed.  But confident and or intelligent horses usually grasp things quickly and are ready for the next step with a thirst to learn.  Too much time 'faffing' with these types of horses leads to boredom and that can lead to trouble (bit like naughty children!).

If need be difficult or unruly horses will be worked more than once a day for as long as needed.  When they learn to be submissive the lessons are kept short and sweet with much reward.

If horses are gong to continue working when they return home, owners are encouraged to come and ride and hack their horse before taking them home.  It makes sense for a different rider to sit on a newly backed horse in surroundings they are used to working in.

SCHOOLING

Horses are often sent to the yard to improve their basic schooling.  Most of the horses we deal with are all round Riding Club horses, youngsters and show horses.  They can be ridden by whomever you choose (see WHO ARE WE?) and the methods of approach and training are also outlined under this section. 

A schooling livery is often a good method of utilising the centre's excellent facilities, especially during the Winter months when getting ready for the oncoming seasons competitions.  Horses can be schooled show jumping (gridwork as necessary) or cross countried. 

To discuss your requirements for breaking and or schooling, contact us for help and a chat.  For costs please see LIVERIES section.