Instructor Training - Overview

We are pleased to offer a 6-week long program of intensive study and practical training. The course is designed for experienced horse people, with a variety of riding backgrounds, who wish to pursue careers as therapeutic riding instructors or current instructors seeking continuing education and/or preparation for certification.

The curriculum includes:

Human Anatomy and Kinesiology
Human Psychology
Teaching Methodology
Disabilities
Mounting Techniques
The Therapy Horse
Adaptive Equipment
Volunteer Recruitment and Management
Hippotherapy
Practical Teaching Experience

To accomplish the demands of this course and to qualify for certification upon completion, those candidates entering the course must meet certain competency requirements. To be accepted into the course, a candidate must pass two proficiency exams that are administered at Equest:

Horse Management – a written exam covering aspects of basic stable and equine management. Suggested references for the exam are listed in the application packet.
Riding Skills – a mounted test of riding skills. Candidates of varying riding backgrounds are accepted into the course, however a solid knowledge of walk-trot-canter with correct leads and diagonals, simple lead changes, leg yielding, turns on the forehand and haunches, and suppling exercises is needed. While we welcome candidates with diverse riding experience, we conduct the riding skills test in jumping or dressage saddles. Some familiarity with the English discipline prior to taking the course is encouraged. We will be happy to review a video of your riding skills prior to your application.

The entrance exams are conducted the first day of the course; tuition fee will be refunded to those candidates failing to meet the proficiency requirements.

Certification:
Candidates who successfully complete all training course requirements will take the NARHA Registered exam at the end of the 6 weeks. Upon passing the exam, candidates will be granted NARHA Registered Instructor status.

With approval of the course director, candidates will also have the option of taking the Advanced level exam at the end of the course as well. These candidates must meet the Advanced level criteria before taking the exam.

For more information on instructor training, contact Susan Liepins.