Riding Lesson Structure & Philosophy
Ages: 5 and up (Available May- October)
At Transitions Acres, riding lessons are grounded in safety, horse welfare, mindfulness, and relationship-based learning. Our program emphasizes correct horsemanship, emotional awareness, and respect for our horses—many of whom come from rescue backgrounds. Lessons are intentionally capped to ensure quality instruction and sustainable workloads for both horses and staff.
****Lessons are weather permitting; inclement weather will result in rescheduling to a suitable date.****
Introductory Riding Lessons
Ages: 5 and up (Available May- October)
One hour, One-on-one Lesson – $50 +HST
Our one-on-one introductory riding lesson is a gentle and welcoming first step into riding. Designed for beginners and those returning to the saddle, this session focuses on safety, confidence, and connection. Riders are thoughtfully matched with one of our calm, well-loved horses and guided through basic grooming, groundwork, and riding skills at a relaxed pace. This lesson also serves as an assessment for riders interested in ongoing lessons, allowing us to discuss experience, comfort level, and personal goals to ensure the best fit moving forward.
New Rider Starter Package
Ages: 5 and up (Available May- October)
2-Lesson Package – $100 +HST
Our New Rider Starter Package is designed to gently welcome new riders into our program. These two introductory lessons allow time to ensure a comfortable and supportive fit between rider, instructor, and horse, while building confidence and understanding in a relaxed environment. This package is required before enrolling in monthly riding lessons and helps us thoughtfully create the best path forward for each rider.
Monthly Lesson Enrollment
Ages: 5 and up (Available May- October)
Private Lessons (4/month): $200+ HST
Our monthly lesson program is designed for riders ready to continue their journey with horses in a supportive, personalized way. Lessons are tailored to each rider’s experience, comfort level, and personal goals, helping them grow confidence, skill, and connection with their horse. Monthly enrollment secures your weekly lesson time, ensuring consistency and progress in a nurturing, encouraging environment.
Saddle Club: The Little Horseman’s “Apprenticeship”
Ages: 7 and up Duration: 4 Weeks (Saturdays, 9:00 am – 12:00 pm) $480 +HST
Session One: June 6, June 13, June 20, June 27 ****FOUR SPOTS ONLY****
Program Goal: To move beyond the basics of riding and develop a deep understanding of equine psychology, health, and partnership. Students will learn what it takes to care for a horse from the ground up.
Week 1: Foundations of the Herd
Focus: Safety, Communication, and Respect
Barn Theory: Understanding “Horse Speak” (ear positions, tail swishing, and herd hierarchy).
Ground Skills: Safe approaching, haltering, and the “Safety Knot.”
In the Saddle: Finding the “Center of Balance.” Mounting, dismounting, and the correct hand/leg position.
Herd Connection: Introduction to the herd’s stories—why trust is earned, not given.
Week 2: The Healthy Horse
Focus: Anatomy and Daily Care
Barn Theory: The “Ouchie” Kit. Learning how to clean a small scratch and what a “Horse First Aid” box looks like.
Ground Skills: Advanced grooming (the why and how of different brushes) and cleaning hooves.
In the Saddle: Steering and Control. Navigating through “The Maze” (cones and poles) at a walk.
Legacy Task: Learning how to properly clean and oil a bridle to preserve the leather.
Week 3: The Athletic Partner
Focus: Tack, Equipment, and Movement
Barn Theory: Parts of the saddle and bridle. How bits and cinches work.
Ground Skills: Independent tacking up (under supervision).
In the Saddle: Introducing the trot (for those ready) and transitions (smoothly going from Halt to Walk to Trot).
Legacy Task: The “Feed Room” tour—learning about hay types and supplements for horses with special diets.
Week 4: The Partnership Challenge
Focus: Confidence and Celebration
Barn Theory: Review of the “Horseman’s Oath” (Responsibility, Patience, and Empathy).
Ground Skills: Leading through a groundwork obstacle course to show trust.
In the Saddle: The Final Skill Challenge. A combination of steering, transitions, and rider posture.
Graduation: Grooming for “Show” and the Junior Horseman Certificate ceremony.
The Transitions Acres Difference
Every student is assigned a “Portfolio” for the month. They will track:
Their Horse’s Stats: Name, age, favorite treat, and personality traits.
Daily Reflections: One thing they learned and one way they helped their horse that day.
The Service Element: A small task each week that contributes to the farm’s mission.
