Good Lessons

[Kit Kat]

So riding is an art form, after all    

After months of riding around in circles in a group lesson - not really learning much other than that there exists such a thing as a diagonal - I've just had my first lesson at Suzannes Riding School in Harrow, with Julian.  It was like suddenly landing on a different planet!  A teacher taking the time to go back to basics and explain everything from start, in the calmest and most encouraging manner, and guiding you on a path to riding in its most natural and beautiful form.  Oh yeah - and a horse that does what you ask!!! Yes its out in the middle of nowhere, but its worth the trip.  Now I can see what it is I'm aiming for - unlike before when my lessons seemed so random.  Certainly beats being stuck in a ring and told to trot on - and best of luck to you
 :blink:

It was brilliant, I can't wait for my next lesson, and I must recommend to anyone stuck riding in circles to take a different path!

So whilst we're on the topic, is there anyone else who knows of good schools? (Similar to NR thread, I know).  We've the "Riding School Watch" topic going here - but people who leave bad schools also need somewhere else to go ... I know we'd all love to go running to Heather's place, but I guess she deserves to sleep occassionally  :P  

[Heather]

Well Kat- told you so!!!!!! I knew you would like Julian, who is the most patient and encouraging of teachers, a lovely rider too. Give him my very best- he is one person in the riding school world, who I have a huge amount of time and respect for. keep us posted and so pleased to hear that you are going to enjoy your riding from now on!


Heather

 

[ros]

Just wanted to say I know what an amazing feeling it is when you actually make that breakthrough and find someone who teaches you what you really want to learn - how to ride PROPERLY!

Etienne Beudant said that the only approbation one should need is that of one's horse -  by which he meant that your horse will tell you if you're doing it right or not, and any other advice is pretty much irrelevant.  It's the very best way to put your instructor to the test - is your horse happy and doing what you want him to?  And by all accounts Julian's horses are happy.  Maybe that should be a much more common standard?