What do I need to do in order to register my interest in Riding Therapy?

You must complete a Rider Enrolment Form which must be signed by your Doctor. These can be found on our website.

How old do I have to be?

Riders must be at least 4 years old.

When are the sessions?

Sessions run term-time only, please see

Sessions and Structure

for more information. Once you have been offered a place, it is yours until you no longer require it.

How much notice do I need to give if I no longer require my riding slot?

1 months’ notice given in writing is required.

How do I pay for sessions?

You will be invoiced annually, and you will need to set up a monthly standing order you’re your bank.

What equipment do I need?

Riding hats conforming to British Safety Standards are provided by Ferring Country Centre for the first three months. Thereafter, riders must bring their own riding hats. It is your responsibility to ensure they meet current safety requirements. Riders should wear comfortable, loose fitting clothing for ease of movement. Jodhpurs, tracksuits or jeans are recommended. Shoes or boots with a low heel must be worn for safety purposes. Trainers, skirts and shorts are not suitable for riding. The British Horse Society website offers more advice about appropriate riding wear. 

When, where and how?

Riders are brought to the Centre by their guardians. The sessions take place in our indoor or outdoor arenas, within our grounds, on the nature trail or hacking in the village/country lanes, depending on the type of session and the rider's ability. 

The application process must be completed prior to the initial assessment session, at which time you will have the chance to discuss the aims and benefits of Riding Therapy. A waiting list is in operation and assessment sessions are undertaken as soon as possible. 

No one is able to ride until the medical form has been completed and signed by their doctor, stating that they are agreeable to the Customer participating. 

Who are the instructors?

Our sessions are taught and organised by our team of experience Riding Instructors. All instructors are trained and qualified to British Horse Society standards or equivalent. 

How will I know if I'm improving?

Riders are encouraged and praised throughout the sessions. Progress reports are available on request. 

Are your horses safe to ride? 

Our horses and ponies are all chosen for their calm nature. They are regularly ridden and schooled to a high standard, and are aware of their rider's ability. Whilst we take every possible precaution to ensure your safety, riding is a hazardous sport and as such, we cannot guarantee that you won't slip or fall. 

I am a wheelchair user. Can I still ride?

We have a lift and hoist system in operation for those who cannot physically mount our horses. Most of our horses are trained in this procedure. 

Are there any restrictions?

We take riders from 4 to 60 years of age. Riders should not weigh more than 14 stone. Riders must be appropriately clothed and wear a riding hat. Riders must arrive at least 10 minutes before their lesson starts. Once riders are mounted, the instructors have the right to refuse late riders to join the session. 

I am a parent/carer/key worker, how do I participate?

Due to our health and safety policies and to enable the rider to enjoy and enhance the benefits, you must remain on site to watch session in progress. In fact, we ask you to participate by staying for the sessions or walking with us on a ride. We do ask that you refrain from distracting the riders when they are mounted. It is important in order to benefit from the session that the rider listens only to the instructor in charge!

If you have any further queries, please call us on 01903 245 078, or email [email protected]