FAQS
WHAT SORT OF RIDING LESSONS ARE AVAILABLE?
We cater for all rider types and ages and lessons are tailored to suit your level of riding experience. If you are a complete beginner, we will work with you on the basics of riding. However, if your riding is at more of an intermediate level, we can work on Show Jumping, Dressage and even Cross Country. Our Instructors at Valley Park Riding School have experience in most disciplines.
If you would like more detail on what we have to offer, please go to our services page.
TERM OR CASUAL RIDING – WHICH ONE SHOULD YOU CHOOSE?
We offer riding lessons on a casual basis and a block Term booking (weekly or fortnightly attendance). The Term follows regular school term dates.
If you would like to secure a place for the Term, payment in full is required prior to the commencement of the Term. This will secure your place for the Term (as group bookings fill quickly). We also try to accommodate your pony preference for the entire Term (subject to the pony remaining in work during the period).
We do recommend, however, that you ride different horses/ponies so as to gain more riding experience.
We also offer block bookings to adult regular riders wishing to make advanced block bookings.
WHAT SHOULD I WEAR TO MY LESSON?
Please wear long pants such as jodhpurs or tracksuit pants. We kindly request that you avoid wearing jeans as the thick seams damage our saddles.
Please wear a long or short sleeved top that is appropriate for the weather. We suggest a collared polo shirt in summer – NO singlets or dresses.
Your shoes must be fully enclosed with a smooth sole. Sneakers are not permitted. We have riding boots available for purchase at our office.
In winter please bring a waterproof jacket – we still ride in the rain!
Please note, if you are a regular rider, correct attire must be worn at all times.
WHAT DOES VPRS PROVIDE?
We have helmets, boots, jodhpurs, safety vests and VPRS branded clothing available to purchase in our office. If you would like to make an order prior to your lesson please send us an email.
All helmets are in compliance with Australian Standard 3838, if you wish to bring your own, they must be up to standard.
WHAT SHOULD I BRING?
We suggest you bring:
- A labelled water bottle
- Sunscreen and hat (in warmer months)
- Waterproof jacket (in cooler weather)
- Snacks if required – please ensure that you follow school protocol regarding allergens
WHERE DO I PARK?
There is very limited parking available at the top of the property in O’Briens Lane. Motor vehicles are NOT permitted to enter the property unless prior authorisation is received from Trish Boys (Proprietor). Parking is available outside the property which is best accessed by driving to the end of the road and turning around to easily drive into an angled park. We suggest car pooling with your group buddies where possible.
WHERE DO I GO TO CHECK INTO MY LESSON?
Please walk down the driveway and make your presence known at the office. If our office staff are with other clients, you can make yourself known to one of our yard staff, or simply wait and our office staff will attend to you as quickly as possible.
Once you are checked in, our yard staff will give you a quick run down on how your lesson will proceed and assist you in getting ready for your lesson.
CAN I WATCH MY CHILDS LESSON?
Of course! We have an undercover seating area near the main arenas, and a small viewing area and bench by the lower arena. Please note that we reserve the right to change this at any time. We kindly ask that everyone maintain Covid-Safe practices when they enter the property.
CAN I BRING MY OWN HORSE TO LESSONS?
At this time, we do not allow horses that do not reside on the Valley Park property to enter for lessons. This is for the health and safety of all horses and riders at Valley Park.
Please visit our pricing list page for a full price list.
WHAT IS THE COST OF A LESSON?
DO YOU HAVE COVID-SAFE MEASURES IN PLACE?
HOW DO I BOOK MY LESSON?
Absolutely. VPRS is determined to protect both students and staff while they are at Valley Park so we adhere to current Victorian Government Guidelines.
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QR code checkin at the front gate
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Social distancing is practised at all times
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Drop & go for parents/carers where possible. Only our new or younger riders who require assistance and care should be accompanied onto the property
You will need to set up a profile in our booking system which you can find by clicking this link. Once you have completed your rider profile, we will then be able to grade you and only appropriate lessons will show up in your booking system. Please note, some options such as equine therapy and pony parties must be manually booked by emailing info@valleyparkriding.com.au
If you need further assistance with the process, please download our HOW TO NAVIGATE ECPRO document.