Ian Millar School
of Horsemanship
Discover & Learn: Introductory Horse Programs
Designed as welcoming first steps into the world of horses, our introductory programs offer meaningful, hands-on experiences for those curious about horsemanship, no prior experience required! From casual, social interactions with horses to more structured skill-building programs, these offerings reflect the Ian Millar School of Horsemanship’s all-inclusive approach to learning with horses
Choose your starting point:
Discover Horses for a single-session, hands-on experience, or Riding Foundations for a structured, multi-week introduction to horsemanship.
Riding Foundations: Introduction Series
The ideal first step before beginner lessons. Building confidence, independence, and essential horsemanship skills so new riders start lessons prepared, comfortable, and set up for success!
Riding Foundations is a beginner-level program designed for participants with little to no prior horse experience, offered in age-specific series for youth (ages 7–12), teens (ages 13–17), and adults (18+). These six-week and four-week programs focus on horsemanship, safety, and foundational movement skills that often get limited time in early riding lessons. By practicing these skills consistently over multiple weeks, participants build comfort, confidence, and independence around horses, creating a smoother and more successful transition into beginner lessons or other equestrian programs.
It’s also a flexible entry point: participants can explore horses without a large upfront investment or need to purchase their own equipment.
Questions? Contact us at lessons@wesleycloverparks.com
Upcoming dates:
Adult Intro Series (18+) | 4-week program:
Monday’s 11am - 12pm: April 6, April 13, April 20 & April 27
Teen Intro Series (13 - 17) | 6-week program:
Saturday’s 10am - 11am: September 26, October 3, October 10, October 17, October 24 & October 31
Youth Intro Series (7 - 12) | 6-week program:
Saturday’s 8:30am - 9:30am: September 26, October 3, October 10, October 17, October 24 & October 31
Through a combination of classroom learning, barn time, and arena activities participants will be introduced to:
Proper grooming and care
Key parts of the horse, saddle, and bridle
Proper tack fit and its importance
How to safely lead a horse and work in the barn
Recognizing basic horse behaviour, colours, and markings
Safe mounting and dismounting techniques
Correct rider position and balance at the walk
More on what to expect in each program:
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Program duration: April 6 – April 27 (4 weeks)
Schedule: Mondays, 11:00am–12:00pm
Cost: $240 + HST (full 4-week series)
Group Size: 6 – 12 participants
Designed for adults with little to no prior horse experience, the Adult Intro Series offers a welcoming introduction to horses and horsemanship in a supportive learning environment. Ideal for those who are horse-curious or looking for a new challenge, the program focuses on building confidence, physical awareness, and foundational skills for working around horses.
Through guided activities and hands-on learning, participants explore the basics of horse care, safety around large animals, and equestrian environments while developing balance, coordination, and comfort on the ground. Riding Foundations creates a strong starting point for adults interested in future learning, recreational riding, or continued involvement with horses.
Participants should finish the program with a basic understanding of the following unmounted skills:
Grooming
Tacking up
Untacking
Leading a horse
Adjusting stirrups and girth
You will also learn how to safely mount and dismount as well as basic aids at the walk (whoa, go and steering).
This course is designed to be repeated as often as you need in order to build your comfort level with all of the above skills. Once a participant is able to confidently complete the above program, they are ready to move into a regular lesson program spot.
What to Wear:
Closed-toed boots with a heel that are flexible at the ankle.
Snug-fitting athletic clothing (no jeans, dresses, or loose jewelry).
Gloves are strongly recommended.
Weather appropriate clothing (we recommend jackets that do not extend past the waist). Sessions take place in a combination of our indoor classroom, barn, and indoor arena. All spaces are heated, though the barn and arena may feel cool in winter.
Helmets will be provided if participants do not have their own.
Long hair must be tied back in a low ponytail or braid (no clips that may interfere with a helmet).
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Program duration: September 26 – October 31 (6 weeks)
Schedule: Saturdays, 10:00–11:00am
Cost: $240 + HST (full 6-week series)
Group Size: 6 – 12 participants
Whether you’re horse-curious or looking for a new challenge, this program focuses on developing fundamental movement skills, physical literacy, and mental focus through ground-based activities, simple gymnastics, and hands-on horsemanship. Participants begin with simulated exercises and barrel work to build balance, coordination, and confidence before progressing to working safely and comfortably around real horses.
Through a combination of classroom learning and practical application, participants gain valuable life skills, including safe horse handling, awareness around large animals, and an understanding of agricultural and equestrian environments. The program encourages physical, mental, and emotional growth while creating a strong foundation for future riding, recreation, or continued involvement with horses.
What to Wear:
Closed-toe, soft-soled shoes that are flexible at the ankle.
Snug-fitting athletic clothing (no jeans, dresses, or loose jewelry).
Optional winter layers: jackets that do not extend past the waist, fingered gloves, winter hat (no snowpants).
Additional Information:
Helmets will be provided if participants do not have their own.
Long hair must be tied back in a low ponytail or braid (no clips that may interfere with a helmet).
Sessions take place in a combination of our indoor classroom, barn, and indoor arena. All spaces are heated, though the barn and arena may feel cool in winter.
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Program duration: September 26 – October 31 (6 weeks)
Schedule: Saturdays, 8:30–9:30am
Cost: $240 + HST (full 6-week series)
Group Size: 6 - 12 participants
Designed for young participants with little to no prior horse experience, the Youth Intro Series offers a fun, supportive introduction to horses and horsemanship. Using a learn-through-play approach, participants build confidence, coordination, and body awareness through games, simple gymnastics, and hands-on horse activities.
Learning begins with ground-based movement exercises and simulated activities before progressing to working safely around real horses. Through a mix of classroom learning, barn time, and arena activities, participants are introduced to basic horse care, safe handling, and the fundamentals of equestrian sport, creating a positive first experience and a strong foundation for future riding or continued learning.
What to Wear:
Closed-toe, soft-soled shoes that are flexible at the ankle.
Snug-fitting athletic clothing (no jeans, dresses, or loose jewelry).
Optional winter layers: jackets that do not extend past the waist, fingered gloves, winter hat (no snowpants).
Additional Information:
Helmets will be provided if participants do not have their own.
Long hair must be tied back in a low ponytail or braid (no clips that may interfere with a helmet).
Sessions take place in a combination of our indoor classroom, barn, and indoor arena. All spaces are heated, though the barn and arena may feel cool in winter.
Discover Horses
Meet, groom, and lead horses while learning the basics of horsemanship. All ages, no experience required!
Looking for a unique mid-day break? Join us at the Ian Millar School of Horsemanship to Discover Horses! Discover Horses is a bi-weekly drop-in program offered on Wednesdays, each session offers a hands-on introduction to horsemanship, so you can join whenever it works for you. No ongoing commitment required!
This program is designed for all ages, no prior horse knowledge required. Whether you’re a curious first-timer, a senior looking for a meaningful new activity, or someone simply looking for a refreshing lunch break, this is the perfect way to experience the world of horses in a welcoming environment.
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During this fun and interactive hour, participants will:
Meet and spend time with some of our wonderful school horses.
Learn the basics of horsemanship, including grooming and leading.
Discover the benefits of connecting with horses like confidence, patience, mindfulness, and empathy.
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Location: Ian Millar School of Horsemanship, Wesley Clover Parks (401 Corkstown Road, Ottawa)
Parking & Entry: Park in the main parking lot and enter the barn through the big black door. Walk down the hall to the far end and gather outside the tack room.
What to Wear: All participants must wear closed-toe shoes. Please dress appropriately for the weather.
Registration: Space is limited, reserve your spot early! Tickets are non-refundable.
Questions? Contact us at lessons@wesleycloverparks.com
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Lessons.
Discover a new passion for horseback riding! The Ian Millar School of Horsemanship offers personalized instruction for beginner to intermediate riders. With over 30 horses working in our lesson program, our horses and ponies are handpicked to meet the needs of our students.
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Day Camps.
Our beginner day camps are a great way to introduce your child to horseback riding in a fun and safe environment! Campers stay occupied with a wide range of activities throughout the week, including daily riding lessons, equine theory, hands on learning, games, crafts and outdoor activities.
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Facilities.
The Ian Millar School of Horsemanship makes use of five outdoor sand rings as well as a 22,000 square foot indoor arena. Both the stable and indoor arena are heated in the winter, making horseback riding lessons possible and comfortable year round.
Being a school horse is a big job!
Feeding Purina keeps our schoolies feeling their very best. Purina is the trusted equine nutrition partner of the Ian Millar School of Horsemanship.