Important information for all riders at Valley Farm.

We are fully committed to safeguarding and promoting the wellbeing of all our riders and equines. We believe that it is important for riders, coaches, parents, volunteers, visitors and anyone associated with any activity taking place at the centre, should at all times show respect and understanding for the safety and wellbeing of others.

Please ensure you have read this before you book a lesson for yourself or a person you are responsible for.

• I understand that riding and handling at any standard has inherent risk and that all equines may react unpredictably on occasions.

• I may fall off and could be injured. I may be injured whilst handling equines. I accept that risk.

• I understand that instructions are given for the safety of myself, those around me and the animals. I therefore agree to follow instructions given to me by staff coaches and officials at the riding school.

• I reserve the right not to ride a horse allocated to me and may request a change of instructor.  I understand this may mean I can not ride on that day and no refund will be given.

• I will wear suitable clothing and footwear. I understand that wearing an appropriate riding hat and body protector may reduce the severity of an injury should an accident happen and agree that I will always wear a riding hat whist riding, leading and grooming horses at the riding school. I understand it is my choice whether or not I wear a body protector.

• I understand that the riding school will make decisions based on information I give them and agree to always be honest and volunteer information about: my weight, abilities and riding experience, any previous riding accidents, any medical condition(s) which may affect my ability to ride. I will update the riding school if this information changes.

• I understand that children are at particular risk around horses and agree that I will keep any children that I am responsible for, under close supervision when they are not being instructed by the riding school.

• I understand that the riding school may refuse my request to ride for safety and operational reasons.

• I understand that competing carries enhanced risk over and above general riding and agree that if I chose to participate in any competition or event, it is up to me to ensure that I have the experience and ability to ride the course including any jumps which form part of it. If I am in any doubt, I will use my judgment and experience and not enter.

• I understand that a horse human relationship is a privilege so I will always keep the horse's welfare in mind and behave appropriately.

• I understand that any child or adult who is disruptive or abusive towards staff or to other children/adults or towards themselves will be asked to leave immediately, there will be no refund or credit.

• I have read the terms and conditions Terms & Conditions | Valley Farm

By taking part in any activity at Valley Farm you are agreeing to the above  terms.

SPECTATOR CODE OF CONDUCT

We welcome spectators at our events. Please note that your behavior can influence the mood of the riders/horses therefore we ask that spectators:

• Behave responsibly at all times

• Keep children and dogs under control 

• Keep gateways and passageways clear

• Treat other spectators, competitors, riders, horses, event staff and officials with respect 

• Do not interfere with equipment or the decisions of staff or officials 

• Only enter a riding arena during a lesson or competition if asked to do so by the coach or organiser

We will attempt to resolve any issues straight away but continued issues may regrettably result in us asking you to leave.

PARENT/CARER CODE OF CONDUCT

• Ensure you child understands the riders code of conduct. 

• Make sure your child has the correct clothing for the activity they are taking part in, and the weather, and that they wear it.

• Ensure your child arrives on time and is collected promptly. Inform us if you will be late or will be making alternative plans for picking up.

• Complete consent, contact and medical forms and update us straight away if there are any changes.

• Maintain a good relationship with your child's coach and keep up to date with your child's progress. 

• Talk to your child about what they have learned, what they want to learn and what you both want from the sport.  Try to learn about  horse care and your child's sport, and what it means to them.

• Remember that children gain a wide range of benefits form equestrian sport, such as making friends, getting exercise, developing skills, learning to care for others, improving self confidence and communication skills, learning about animal welfare.

• Talk to us if you have any concerns

• Be a positive role model for your child

• Encourage your child to abide by the rules

• Encourage your child to recognise that taking part, learning and showing good sportsmanship is of the utmost importance and promote the ethos that participation in sport is fun.

• Support your child's involvement and offer encouragement. Do not punish or belittle your child for failing to perform as you would like. Do not pressure them into sports or activities that they do not wish to do.

• Respect coaches, officials, volunteers, participants and other parents

• Use appropriate conduct at all times including on social media channels

As a parent/carer we understand that you have the right to:

Know who the safeguarding officer is and have their contact details. Be assured that your child is safeguarded. Know what training and qualifications the staff have. Be informed of any problems or concerns relating to your child. Be informed if your child is injured. Have any concerns about any aspect of your child's welfare listened to and responded to as appropriate.

GUIDELINES ON USE OF WHIPS

In line with The Pony Club and British Riding Clubs we feel that it is important that riders are correctly educated in the use of riding whips and that they should NEVER be used inappropriately. This includes riders on their own horses and on our horses at any time they are on our property. If you wish to purchase a whip to carry at Valley Farm we recommend you familiarise yourself with the current regulations before purchasing. These can be found on the Pony Club or British Horse Society website. https://branches.pcuk.org/seskinore/pony-club-hat-body-protector-whips-stirrup-rules/

FURTHER INFORMATION

Further information can be found on our terms and conditions page Terms & Conditions | Valley Farm Please make sure you have read them before you ride. If there is anything you do not understand, please ask a member of senior staff.