AERA PATHWAYS
A thoughtful approach to learning, partnership, and mindful riding
At AERA, coaching is organised through Pathways — a structured yet flexible way of supporting riders and horse owners as their skills, understanding, and confidence develop over time.
Each Pathway represents a stage of learning, designed to support both horse and rider in a way that respects the horse’s wellbeing and the rider’s long-term growth.
Progress isn’t rushed or tied to fixed outcomes.Instead, riders move forward based on readiness, understanding, and independence.
Most riders spend several years developing within the AERA Pathways, supported in a way that encourages clarity, curiosity, and partnership.
New to AERA?
If you’re unsure where to begin, the Start Here page will guide you through how coaching works and help you find your starting point.
👉 Go to Start Here
LEVEL 1 FOUNDATIONS
Learning to understand horses, yourself, and safe interaction — before pressure is added.
This Pathway supports riders and horse lovers who want to build confidence, clarity, and understanding before focusing on ridden work.
Foundations focuses on developing equine literacy, self-awareness, and safe, thoughtful handling — creating a calm, informed starting point for future learning.
LEVEL 2 Horse & Owner Development
Developing real, transferable skill and partnership over time.
This is the core long-term Pathway at AERA.
It supports riders as they establish consistent training habits, deepen their understanding of movement and communication, and develop the confidence to problem-solve and reflect independently.
Support within this Pathway evolves gradually as skills grow, helping riders move toward greater autonomy while staying supported.
LEVEL 3 MINDFUL RIDING AS A SPORT
Horse welfare centred preparation for competition, supporting both ambition and the horse’s experience.
This specialist Pathway is for riders who enjoy the challenge of sport and want to pursue competition without compromising their values or their horse’s wellbeing.
The focus is on preparing horses physically, mentally, and emotionally for the demands of competition, while supporting rider awareness, clarity, and resilience under pressure.
Specialist Pathways
Some horses need focused support outside the main rider development Pathways.
These Specialist Pathways are designed around the horse’s stage of life, wellbeing, or training needs.
