OUR
LESSON
PROGRAM
The Riding School at James River Equestrian Center offers English horseback riding lessons to those who do not own a horse. We teach beginner through intermediate Hunter/Jumper lessons. We have ponies and horses that are appropriate for the beginner as well as animals that can challenge and accommodate the more advanced rider. In our program, each rider is developed at his or her own pace. We limit the size of our lessons to a maximum of five riders. This approach allows our riders to learn from each other as well as enjoying the social aspect of horse riding.
GROUP LESSONS
At the Riding School, we offer group lessons of 3 to 5 riders which last for one hour at a time. Lessons are arranged not only to fit your schedule, but to match each rider with an appropriate animal and to place your rider in with others of similar age and experience. Careful placement will ensure success for your rider(s).
Lessons are scheduled and billed based on a calendar month.
One lesson a week is $220 each month. Two lessons a week is $420 per month.
Three lessons a week is $630 per month.
Multiple lessons per week may be shared between family members
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You may pay by cash or check (made out to JREC), or PayPal. PayPal payments may be made to JRRSmanager@gmail.com and include a convenience fee. PayPal amounts are as follows:​
1 lesson/week- $230.00
2 lessons/ week- $435.00
3 lessons/ week- $650.00
Stop by to learn more about our lessons.
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Please review our policies to ensure a successful lesson.
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We do not offer trail rides
WORKING STUDENT PROGRAM
We offer a Working Student Program for current students ages 12 and older. Students get a chance to learn what is involved in caring for a horse by helping with the daily chores of the barn. What they earn is applied as a discount toward their lessons. The program teaches responsibility and teamwork in addition to horsemanship. Prior to becoming a Working Student the rider must complete a 6 month Volunteer Program where they shadow and learn the proper way to complete the barn chores.
WHAT YOU'LL NEED
REQUIRED ATTIRE
Riders shall come to lessons in the below required attire:
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ASTM approved horse riding helmet (NO bike helmets).
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Hard soled shoes that come over the ankle with a small heel.
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Long pants, NO shorts.
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Short sleeves (in the summer). NO spaghetti string tops.
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Long hair is to be tied back.
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Gloves are recommended in cold weather.
HELMETS
Although we provide helmets for new students to borrow, we highly recommend purchasing a riding approved helmet for your child when they start taking riding lessons. Contact the barn office if you need to know where to purchase an appropriate helmet.
LESSON DAY
Please ensure your rider has a water bottle at each lesson.
Arrive for your lesson 15 minutes prior to the scheduled start of the lesson.
Allow at least 15 minutes after the scheduled completion of the lesson to take care of the horse/pony.
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