The Stables at Frederica offers group lessons during the school year, with very limited private lesson availabilities. Group lessons are a wonderful way for riders to create meaningful friendships, hone their competition skills, and learn from other riders. We group riders together based on riding levels and ages. Back to School, Fall, and Winter Sessions span 8 weeks with the ninth reserved for makeup lessons (Spring Session is 9 weeks with a 10th for makeups). Only one lesson per session is eligible for makeup (with 24 hours notice).
+ how do i know at what level my rider should be placed?
The Stables at Frederica utilizes a classification schedule of riding levels that loosely mirrors the categories used in IEA competition. The riding industry does not have a universal classification system, so we adhere to the IEA system for simplicity. If your rider has prior experience then the best way to determine her level is through an evaluation lesson.
+ how do i know if my rider is progressing or struggling?
At the end of each session your rider's trainer will send out a report card detailing what skills have been mastered and what still needs work. Parents are always encouraged to contact the instructors to get a better understanding of their rider's level and progress.
+ what is the attendance policy for sessions?
The Stables runs four sessions throughout the school year, either 8 or 9 weeks long. At the end of each session is a Make Up Week, in which a cancelled lesson may be made up, provided it was cancelled with at least 24 hours notice. The Stables allows for one make up lesson per session. Makeups are held at the regular day and time during Make Up Week.
+ what happens if the weather turns bad?
Lessons are still held in the case of inclement weather. Trainers will take the opportunity to hold lessons on various areas of horsemanship, including types of equipment, nutrition, and first aid. In case of a major weather event such as hurricanes and tornado warnings the Stables will notify students of cancellations and provide several times for makeups.
+ what kind of gear does my rider need?
At a minimum riders will need long pants and closed-toe shoes with a small heel. All shirts should be tucked into pant waistbands and longer hair should be secured into a low ponytail. The Frederica Tack Shop carries quality and affordable items such as gloves, helmets, boots, and riding clothing.
+ what time should my rider arrive for her lesson?
FUN level riders should plan to arrive 5-10 minutes before their lessons. Beginner level riders, once capable, will be invited by their instructors to begin arriving earlier so that they can pull out equipment and begin getting their horses ready. Novice and up riders should plan to arrive 30 minutes before their lesson start time so that they can groom and tack up to be in the arena at their lesson start time. Riders that arrive to the Stables after others in the group have already entered the arena will not be allowed to ride during the lesson but are asked to assist the instructor and watch the lesson.
+ will my rider be on the same horse every lesson?
Riders will ride as many different lesson horses as fit their level. In order to produce capable and well-rounded riders, trainers will vary which horses the riders ride in lessons in order to teach them various skills.
+ when is it time to participate in competitions?
Competitions cater to many different levels of riding. Generally riders will need to be proficient at the walk and the trot before beginning competition. Your student's trainer will periodically send communications regarding upcoming horse shows, and more information can be found here.
Riding Levels
F.U.N. Level - Fun and Fundamentals. First-time beginner riders will learn how to tack up, walk, trot, steer, and other basics of horse care and riding skills.
Beginner Level - Riders at this level can tack up, walk, trot, and can canter or are learning to canter. Some assistance in the barn may still be necessary.
Novice Level - Novice riders are able to walk, trot, canter, and are learning the basics of jumping through poles and crossrails. Most of the these riders are competent at tacking up/putting away their horses.
Intermediate Level - These riders are learning more advanced flatwork and jumping up through 2’ fences. Course work is being introduced, and riders are autonomous in the barn.
Advanced Level - Riders are learning advanced flatwork techniques as well as jumping over 2’ fences and courses. These riders are fully competent and independent in the barn.
If you are interested in joining our group lessons during any session please fill out the below form with your preferred group times. We will contact you with confirmation of group registration.