in the saddle with equestrian programmes
Equestrianism, also known as horse riding, has been a cherished hobby in the United Kingdom for centuries, with schools introducing formal lessons as early as the 1800s. Rooted in a rich cultural heritage, the sport has long been associated with tradition, discipline, and companionship. Over time, it has evolved from a practical skill into a highly regarded competitive and recreational hobby, enjoyed by riders of all ages and abilities.
With such a prestigious history, it is no surprise that boarding schools across the UK continue to embrace this tradition, offering pupils the chance to develop their skills in a supportive and structured environment. From excellent facilities to experienced instructors, these schools provide a strong foundation for aspiring equestrians. Here are just a few examples of the many outstanding equestrian programmes that can be found across the UK.
Lancing College
The Equestrian Centre at Lancing College, situated within the scenic college grounds in West Sussex, offers an great environment for students to engage in equestrian pursuits as part of a structured co-curricular programme. Riding is fully integrated into the weekly timetable, so pupils can pursue their academic studies whilst enjoying regular training and personalised coaching sessions.
The Centre itself is well-equipped to support riders at every level. It features secure stabling facilities, a 40m x 20m all-weather arena suitable for year-round training, and direct access to bridleways across the South Downs National Park. These facilities provide students with the chance to enjoy both arena-based lessons and countryside hacks.
Lancing College’s Equestrian Centre caters to riders of all abilities, from beginners to experienced competitors preparing for shows and competitions. Students can explore a range of disciplines, including dressage, show jumping, and cross-country, under the guidance of experienced instructors. Beyond technical skills, the programme also encourages personal growth and confidence, helping students to develop a deeper understanding of horsemanship.
did you know?
Modern horse racing began in England in 1776. Some of the most famous races, like the Grand National and Royal Ascot, are still held in the UK today, attracting fans from all across the world.
Leweston School
The Riding Academy at Leweston School provides purpose-built facilities designed to meet the needs of riders at every level. Students benefit from a floodlit competition arena, modern stables, a solarium, and scenic rides through the Dorset countryside, alongside dedicated classroom space for equestrian theory. The programme welcomes beginners as well as experienced riders competing at a national level, ensuring tailored coaching and support for every student.
Boarders have daily access to the Academy, with structured riding sessions integrated into their routine alongside horse care, fostering both skill development and responsibility. The school’s experienced instructors highlight horsemanship, competition preparation, and the enjoyment of riding, helping pupils gain confidence both on and off the saddle.
In addition to practical riding, Leweston School offers pupils access to advanced training facilities and the opportunity to study for a BTEC in Equine Management. This academic pathway combines hands-on equine care with theoretical knowledge, supporting progression to higher education or careers within the equestrian industry. By blending high-quality facilities, expert coaching, and structured learning, Leweston’s Riding Academy provides a comprehensive and inspiring environment for any student passionate about horses and equestrian sport.
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Mayfield School
Mayfield School’s Equestrian Department provides an environment where pupils can pursue their riding ambitions while excelling academically. Central to this is the purpose-built, BHS-approved on-site Equestrian Centre, which offers state-of-the-art facilities for both horses and riders.
Students at Mayfield are encouraged to take an active role in stable management, learning essential skills such as grooming, feeding, and health monitoring. This hands-on involvement not only fosters responsibility and discipline, but also deepens their understanding of equine care. Along with daily care, pupils benefit from access to specialist clinics, including veterinary, physiotherapy, and nutrition sessions, giving them insight into professional equestrian life.
Riders receive expert coaching tailored to their individual needs, covering specialties such as dressage, show jumping, and eventing. Regular competitions, both within the school and nationally, allow pupils to test their skills and build confidence. By combining structured horse care with high-quality instruction, Mayfield School ensures that every student can develop as a confident equestrian whilst maintaining strong academic performance.
did you know?
The UK has a strong equestrian tradition. At the Paris 2024 Olympics, Team Great Britain added five equestrian medals to its collection: gold in team eventing, bronze in individual eventing, silver and bronze in individual dressage, and bronze in team dressage.
Millfield School
Millfield School is a BHS Approved Livery Yard with extensive on-campus equestrian facilities, providing tailored programmes for riders of all levels, with opportunities to develop riding skills in a supportive environment.
The school offers a range of training options, from the elite Meyers Programme for advanced riders, to the Development and Millfield Mix programmes, which blend ridden sessions with strength and conditioning, sports psychology, and hands-on stable management. This approach ensures students not only improve their riding, but also gain a deeper understanding of equine care and performance.
Millfield’s facilities offer spacious stabling, indoor and outdoor arenas, show jumps, cross-country fences, and gallops. Students can also enjoy polo sessions at Vaux Park and scenic rides across the beautiful Somerset countryside.
did you know?
There are an estimated 85,000 - 1 million horses in the UK, including notable native breeds such as Shetland ponies, Shire horses, and Thoroughbreds, each with a long history and significant cultural importance.
Stonar school
Stonar School's equestrian programme offers on-site facilities exclusive to pupils, including indoor and outdoor arenas, a cross-country course, show jumps, and over 70 stables. Expert coaching and individually tailored training plans support riders at every stage, with clear pathways to national competition.
A full competitive team calendar ensures students gain valuable experience across a variety of disciplines, from dressage and show jumping to eventing, providing opportunities for students to participate and gain experience in a team setting.
Stonar’s equestrian programme ensures that each pupil can thrive whilst balancing academic achievement with a passion for equestrianism.
