This article is written in answer to many queries regarding the standard required for ABRS Approval.  It contains the kind of things our inspectors look for when visiting a school whose proprietor wishes to become an approved member of the ABRS.

GENERAL APPEARANCE OF THE ESTABLISHMENT

A tidy yard, and whilst buildings may be old, they should be warm and dry, and loose boxes should be large enough for horses and ponies to move about easily.  Stalls should have partitions high enough to protect animals from reaching each other and biting.  Stabled animals should have adequate bedding to enable them to lie down comfortably, and to prevent them getting colds and chills from concrete floors.

HORSES AND PONIES

All animals should be in good condition.  Animals living out may not look as well groomed as stabled animals, but coats should still be bright.  When animals come in from a ride and have been sweating, the ears, saddle and girth marks should be rubbed dry.  There should be a regular worming programme and records kept.

Care of feet will be taken into consideration, also the type of horses and ponies used, and their ages.  Approval will not be given to a proprietor who is using 3 year old animals, as they are certainly far too young for riding school work.  (This is not allowed under the Riding Establishments Act 1964/64170).

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SADDLEROOM AND EQUIPMENT

Saddlery should be soft and supple and in good repair.  Whilst it may not be possible to take saddlery to pieces and clean every day, it is necessary to clean it several times a week.  This helps to preserve the leather and keep saddles and bridles in good condition.  Special attention should be given to stirrup leathers, girths, etc., broken leathers or girths may result in a serious accident.

FACILITIES

The minimum facilities and equipment are required.  There is no grading of schools, therefore large schools who specialise have no priority over a very small school.  Good grazing is essential if horses and ponies live out, with suitable stabling to tie up the animals for grooming and tacking up.  One of the following is necessary - a covered school, an outside manege or some enclosed space for instruction.  A small number of well made rustic or painted jumps, set up in a paddock or field, add to the general appearance of any establishment.

INSTRUCTION

The standard of instruction would be assessed on the lesson given: a) Elementary, b) Intermediate, c) Advanced or on an ABRS Test level

One expects good sound instruction in whatever grade the instructor is teaching.

HEALTH AND SAFETY

The standards of teaching and facilities must meet current Health and Safety legislation and also comply with local Council environmental health targets.

APPROVAL

If a school does not come up to the standard required for approval, advice will be given and recommendations made to bring it up to an acceptable level. If on the other hand the general standard is low and remains so - then ABRS approval will not be considered.

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