Frequently Asked Questions

We run 2 semesters. Summer semester is July-August and our Fall semester is September to June. Our Rookie and Introductory programs are 4-8 weeks in length.

Lessons can be started at any time however availability of programs will vary.

Please contact us to find out more.

All riders must wear an ASTM/SEI approved, properly fitted helmet and a boot with a heel of no more than 1.5 centimeters in height. Students and campers must own their own riding helmet - for safety reasons, York Equestrian does not have helmets to loan. No helmet, no ride, no exceptions!

Safe, comfortable helmets can be purchased at any horse tack shop. Ask your instructor if you have any questions about finding your helmet and ensuring it is the right fit. 


In addition to their boots and helmet, riders should dress for comfort. Fitted clothing (not loose or baggy) is recommended, and long pants are a must for riding! Having extra clothes to change into in case clothing gets wet or uncomfortable is always a good idea. Please label all items with your child’s name.

Campers are asked to bring their own packed peanut-free lunch. Please note they will have access to a fridge, microwave, toaster oven and sink.

Here are a few other items riders may want to bring to camp:

Summer:

• Sunscreen
• Water bottle
• Hat for outdoor games
• Sweater for cooler days
• Riding gloves
• Change for the vending machines
• Running shoes

Winter:

• Winter riding gloves
• Winter boots
• Extra dry socks
• Layered clothing
• Mug for hot chocolate
• Hand and foot warmers
• Change for the vending machines
• Running shoes

For comfort and safety, all students must wear appropriate clothing in the barn and while riding. Pants are required to be long (for the comfort of the rider) and clothing should be fitted - nothing loose or baggy, which can be a hazard. A rider’s hair needs to be tied back with an elastic or a hairnet and tucked neatly under the helmet. You can’t ride if you can’t see! 



Ideally, students will be outfitted in riding breeches with a belt, as well as half chaps or tall boots to protect their legs. Shirts should be tucked in or well-fitted so they do not interfere with the rider’s position. We also strongly recommend riding gloves; a lightweight, breathable pair in the summer and a heavier pair for the winter.

While not required, students are encouraged to purchase and wear an equestrian safety vest. An equestrian safety vest acts as a body protector in the event of a fall. Vests can be purchased in a variety of styles and price ranges. An adjustable vest with lacing or velcro straps will ensure a snug fit and accommodate for rider growth or type of clothing.

In cooler weather, riders should dress in layers that can be removed without going over their head - zip up sweaters, jackets, etc. Scarves, if worn while riding, must be tucked in to a sweater or jacket. Hot and foot warmers are also a great idea for winter riding!

Our riding school does not offer trail rides or one time lessons.

Lessons run year long and are divided into two semester schedules: the fall schedule, from September to June, and the summer schedule, which runs for eight weeks from July - August. Riders can sign up for one semester or both, if they prefer to continue riding throughout the year.

We ask that all riders arrive no later than 30 minutes before their scheduled lesson time. This gives riders adequate time to groom and tack up their horse. Lessons start on time, no exceptions. It is a rider’s responsibility to present a clean, correctly tacked up horse for their lesson. Staff is available in the barn to answer any questions or check tack if needed.

We understand that sometimes vacations or events might conflict with your lessons. We have a Makeup Policy so that we can arrange suitable makeup sessions for every rider. York Equestrian requires a written notice of planned absence at least 7 days in advance for makeup eligibility. This ensures timely makeup offers for all riders. Up to six makeup lessons are allowed from September to June. If you are enrolled in more than one lesson per week, please discuss additional makeup lessons with staff if required.

Please Note:

1. All makeups will be completed in a group lesson.
2. Makeups cannot be taken in your regular lesson time.
3. Account must be up to date in order for a makeup to be scheduled.
4. All makeup requests expire June 30th and will not be carried over to the summer schedule or next fall season.
5. Makeup lessons do not have cash value and cannot be deducted from the monthly invoice.
6. Makeup lessons will not be scheduled after a student has left the program.
7. Canceled or missed makeup lessons will not be rescheduled.

To receive a makeup lesson, complete the Makeup Request Form available on the Portal.

Lessons are paid monthly. We accept credit card (visa or mastercard) or etransfer. For riding camp, payment must be made at the time of registration to reserve a placement.

If you choose to leave our riding program, simply provide two weeks written notice to the office. Any outstanding makeup lessons will be scheduled during this time.

We run lessons rain, shine, sleet, or snow. Our indoor arena provides a sheltered ride from the elements and is equipped with heaters to take the nip out of cold winter air. If weather affects the safety of our riders or horses, lessons will be cancelled and all riders will be notified by email.


Riders must ask a staff member before feeding any horse a treat. This is for safety reasons as some horses have allergies or other health conditions. We also insist that treats are not to be fed by hand, but instead placed in the horses feed bin or on the ground.