Hordle

Horse riding is an important part of life at Hordle Walhampton. With our large, purpose-built, secure and self-contained yard, riding arena and 90 acres of woodland trails we are able to offer a wide variety of equestrian activities for pupils aged five years and above who wish to learn to ride or improve their skills.

Riding Instructors: The Riding Department is run by Eve Blachford BHSAI. Eve is competing at British Dressage Affiliated Elementary level.

Riding Lessons: Hordle Walhampton offers weekly riding lessons (or ten sessions per term) for children in Years One-Eight and to Pre-Prep’s Reception class during the Summer Term. The lessons are held in small groups, divided according to age and ability. Trail rides around the school’s grounds offer further interest and scope to our riders.

Abilities: The department is able to cater for a wide range of abilities; from the complete beginner to those improving their equestrian skills.

Events and Competitions: Each term the Department organises a range of internal competitions such as dressage, show jumping and gymkhanas. Pupils also represent the school in a number of external competitions such as the Inter-School Tetrathlon.

The Ponies: All the ponies used at Hordle Walhampton belong to individual pupils, who bring their ponies to school during term time. They are safe, friendly and each one quickly becomes a ’special favourite’.

Saturday Activities: Horsecare and Stable Management skills are taught during Saturday morning activities, when the chldren learn all that is required to look after the ponies.