LEVEL 2:
Horse & Rider
Development PATHWAY
What this Pathway is about
Horse & Rider Development is the core long-term Pathway at AERA.
It’s designed for riders who want to make genuine progress — not by chasing quick results, but by developing the skills, understanding, and confidence that allow both horse and rider to thrive.
This Pathway supports you as you learn to:
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train with clarity rather than force
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recognise understanding rather than compliance
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notice subtle changes in your horse’s body, emotions, and responses
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and develop the confidence to think, feel, and problem-solve independently
We track your progress but the process matters as much as the outcome.
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Henley on Thames, RG9
Marlow, Buckingamshire
West London, UB5
WHO FOR?
Horse & Rider Development is suited to:
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horse owners and regular sharers
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riders who value routine and consistency
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people who enjoy learning and asking “why”
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those who want ethical, horse-centred training
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riders ready to take increasing responsibility for their own learning
This Pathway is not about being perfect.
It’s about being present, curious, and committed.
HOW LEARNING WORKS ON THIS PATHWAY
Learning on Horse & Rider Development happens through continuity.
Rather than one-off lessons or rigid programmes, support is offered as an ongoing learning rhythm that adapts as you grow.
As skills and understanding develop:
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sessions shift from pure instruction to holistic coaching
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reflection becomes as important as repetition
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support evolves toward greater independence
Online sessions are used alongside in-person work to develop reflection, problem-solving, and confidence in your own training decisions.
This Pathway is designed to help you learn how to train, not just what to do.
What you’ll develop over time
Rather than fixed modules, learning unfolds across interconnected areas:
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rider awareness: posture, balance, habits, internal state
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understanding equine movement and biomechanics
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recognising emotional regulation and stress responses
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clear, fair communication through timing and feel
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thoughtful groundwork and ridden development
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planning, reviewing, and adjusting training
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building confidence in decision-making
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developing a partnership based on trust and clarity
Progress is measured in understanding, ease, and confidence — not just visible outcomes.
What this Pathway prepares you for
Over time, riders on this Pathway often experience:
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greater confidence in their own judgement
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clearer communication with their horse
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less reliance on constant instruction
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more enjoyment and ease in training
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the ability to adapt when challenges arise
Some riders later choose to:
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continue developing without competitive goals
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move into Level 3 — Mindful Riding as a Sport
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focus more deeply on specific areas of interest
There is no expectation to “move up”.
Progression is guided by readiness and choice.
choose your learning rhythm
THE 'LIFE HAPPENS' DEVELOPMENT
A 12-session learning block for changing schedules
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12-session learning block (valid over 6 months)
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In-person and online support
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Option to continue with a further learning block or transition into a monthly learning rhythm
ROUTINE LOVERS DEVELOPMENT
A steady, ongoing learning rhythm with monthly payments
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Minimum 3-month commitment
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In-person and online support
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Continues in rolling 3-month learning cycles, with a review at the end of each cycle
Is DEVELOPMENT PATHWAY A GOOD FIT FOR YOU?
If you’ve completed Foundations — or already have a solid base — and are looking for consistent, thoughtful development, this Pathway may be a good fit.
The best way to explore this is through a Trial Session, where we can:
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talk through your goals
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look at how you and your horse are working together
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and decide whether this Pathway supports you right now
pathway review
Working with Wiola has made a huge difference in how I connect with my horse, as well as providing a change in perspective.
Wiola has helped me to break down my interactions with Sydney into smaller, more manageable steps, so I can see when he is really understanding whatever it is I am asking. I’ve learned to notice the little ‘tries’ he gives and appreciate his efforts in a way I had not seen before.
The hybrid sessions of in person and online work very well —it helps me to practice the exercises I have been shown during our in-person meet ups and stay on track between lessons.
Once you have done a few videos of your own training sessions it becomes easier than you think. I just prop the camera up on a shelf or ledge (or sometimes use a selfie stick) and video a task I am working on for 3 or 4 mins. It is really helpful as the online sessions help me to keep the key points fresh and I get a better feel for how to improve.
Practicing on my own and doing the videos has made it easier to apply what I've learned and really grasp the details of our work together.
Wiola’s professionalism and generosity with her time mean so much, and my sessions help me feel much more in tune with Sydney and more thoughtful about the way we work together.
I’m extremely grateful for her guidance!
Lisa & Sydney
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