Our Standards 

Horse Welfare

• Horse Selection: Our horses are chosen for their friendly, calm nature and love of engaging with people. They’re experienced, gentle, and adjust easily to each rider, making them excellent teachers.

• Horse Education: We school our horses weekly to keep them engaged, prevent bad habits, and monitor their health. Our coaches closely observe their movement, addressing any needs with professionals like chiropractors or physiotherapists when necessary.

• Variety & Routine: Along with schooling, our horses enjoy enrichment activities and maintain a consistent routine, ensuring they feel safe and confident.

• Diet & Care: Our horses live on pasture, receive high-quality feed tailored to their needs, and enjoy regular farrier visits to keep their hooves healthy.

• Accommodation: Horses live in small, social groups in the field. If a horse is in a stable or yard, it’s for health reasons or temporary care.

• Workload: Our horses work a maximum of two 60-minute lessons a day, have Mondays off, and take additional breaks throughout the year. 

 

Safety

• Daily Care: We groom and check our horses before and after each lesson, with riders involved in the process to ensure both safety and comfort.

• Tack & Equipment: Our tack is clean, well-maintained, and fitted to ensure comfort for both horse and rider. All our equipment is regularly inspected for safety, including FEI safety cups for our show jumps.

• Personal Protective Equipment: Safety is our top priority. All staff and riders wear helmets and boots around horses, and riders are trained in safe handling techniques. We’re committed to minimizing risk, both on the ground and in the saddle.

• Controlled Environment: Our riding spaces are carefully maintained and inspected regularly. Spectators are seated in safe areas to avoid any potential hazards.

 

Rider Education

• Tailored Learning: We use a variety of teaching techniques to cater to a range of learning styles. Lessons are flexible and adapted to suit the rider’s and horse’s capacity and ability on any given day.

• Beginner to Advanced: We have 5 defined levels for beginner riders, with clear milestones to track progress. For more experienced riders, we offer individual lessons, group sessions, and the opportunity to explore our show jumps, canter track, and working equitation course.

• Experienced, Kind Coaches: Our coaches are skilled, intuitive, and always supportive. At The Parklands Stables, learning is collaborative, with no judgement or pressure. Your goals are our priority, and we’re here to ensure your riding journey is rewarding and enjoyable.