Our Program

The ‘hands on’ program at Willow Grove Stables is designed to develop horsemen (and women), not ‘just riders’. The discriminating horse enthusiast will enjoy our attention to both the horses’ and the riders’ safety and well being. Our coaching program always emphasizes common sense and safety while challenging riders at all levels. Recognizing that riders have different goals, our programs are individualized and classes organized accordingly.

Riding is a great sport for children as it gives them the opportunity to learn commitment, responsibility, and work ethic that will serve them throughout their lives. We also have a large contingent of recreational and competitive adult riders who have previously ridden or are just starting out who have found that riding is a great way of dissolving the stress of a busy day.

All students are required to complete several private lessons before riding in groups lessons. Each one learns to groom and tack his or her own horse. Qualified (ability level) riders may substitute recreational rides for makeup lessons with their coach’s approval.

Our pricing policy reflects our philosophy that consistent hands-on experience helps riders reach their equestrian goals much quicker. We recommend that students ride a minimum of twice weekly. We require that they ride a minimum of once each week. Our program pricing is designed so that students taking two or more lessons per week will find exceptional value for their money.

All staff coaches at Willow Grove are nationally certified with Equine Canada and the National Coaching Certification Program. Other coaches are here mentoring and training toward their certification. Having several coaches brings diversity to our program and also presents everyone with more options when it comes to scheduling lessons and training. We are able to match rider and coach personalities to make the learning experience both fun and safe. Some coaches are more patient and understanding with the younger students while others are better suited to assist adults with learning the steps required for becoming an equestrian. To enhance the education of all our riders, we bring in clinicians who compliment the daily training offered by our coaches.

We invite you to the stable to meet the horses, coaches and clients while you are considering our facility. It is important to us that the individuals riding here are comfortable with our philosophy and safety standards for both horses and students. Please stop in and interview us at your convenience. For more information on our program, horses for sale or lease or other questions, please feel free to contact us. We are confident you will see and appreciate the quality of the program we offer.