Beginning Horsemanship

Students will learn how to work with and communicate with horses, despite differences. Riders will develop this understanding and work with horses in new and more advanced ways. Emphasis is placed on safety and a proper understanding of equine communication and behavior both in and out of the saddle. The unmounted portion of class focuses on how to safely halter, lead, groom and tack the horse before & after riding. The mounted portion of class includes work at the walk, trot and understanding the foundations of jumping and advanced flat work. This class will utilize class discussion, class assignments and student participation to develop each student into a rider who can confidently work with a horse both mounted and unmounted. This course will utilize class discussion, assignments, and student participation to develop each student into a rider who can confidently work with a horse both mounted and unmounted. English and Western styles of riding will be offered, with an emphasis on western riding.Prerequisite: Over 15 hours of riding time or completion of PE 65. Riders who have not successfully completed PE 65 must submit information on their previous work with horses and may be asked to come out for an assessment of abilities before the first class.