Rider Information

We aim to provide an enjoyable fun experience for our riders in a safety aware environment. Riding provides a range of therapies for all riders. It helps with balance, co-ordination, concentration, life skills, confidence and speech.

Before you can ride with us

Before a rider joins our group the instructor will work with the rider, their parents or guardians (as appropriate) usually during a visit to the yard. In some cases the Regional RDA physiotherapist is called to assist to provide a plan on how riding can help the rider and what support or specialist equipment is required. This will necessitate sharing of medical details in confidence. The completed application form must be signed by a medical professional. We will need to know the height and weight of the rider to ensure that a suitable pony or horse is available. Sometimes we have a waiting list of riders and the availability of a suitable horse will determine priority.

Your First lesson with us

What to wear. For your lesson you should wear trousers or jogging suit bottoms and a top with sleeves. If it is cold you you will need a jacket or anorak. If the weather is bad we will ride in the indoor riding school - it can still be cold in the winter. Footwear is important - 'sensible' flat shoes or boots with a heel are best. If you do not have these then trainers are acceptable. Shoes must be enclosed without a high heel. You will be provided with a riding hat which meets British Standards Institute regulations.

Your pony or horse will have been selected for you according to your height and weight. You will be introduced to your horse and helped to mount. Some riders are able to mount a horse from a mounting block with support from the instructor and helpers - others will need to use an additional step ramp. This is useful for wheelchair users and those who are very tight and find mounting from the mounting block too difficult.

During your first lesson you will probably have an instructor and three helpers. One helper to lead your horse, and one each side to walk with you until you become confident and able to keep your balance. If you have ridden before then you will be provided with help according to your ability. Your helpers will make sure you are comfortable on the horse. They will make sure that the stirrups are the correct length for you and assess whether you need additional specialist equipment. They will record all of this information in your rider profile - so that the next week everything is ready for you when you arrive.

Rider Application Form - Click here

Return the form to Bill Johnston, 52 Skeltiemuir Avenue, Bonnyrigg, Midlothian, EH19 3PX