Simsbury, CT
THE ETHEL WALKER SCHOOL RIDING PROGRAM For more than 100 years, riding has been a part of daily life at Walker’s. Ethel Walker, an equestrian herself, is described as always emphasizing the necessity of developing character as well as intellect. Our exceptional equestrian program sets Walker’s apart from its peers. We are one of only a small number of independent schools that offers an equestrian program and part of an even smaller group that hosts equestrian facilities on campus. The social, emotional, and character-based lessons that come from a passion for equestrian sports are consistent with our School’s ethos. Walker’s program is one that is pedagogically-based – where students are taught to be active riders, where riding facilities are viewed as outdoor classrooms, where the emphasis is placed on horsemanship, and where mission-driven social and emotional learning is nurtured to foster a barn culture of teamwork and commitment. The program’s staff includes leading industry experts who train students of all levels in the hunter, jumper, and hunt-seat equitation disciplines, coach our Interscholastic Equestrian Association (IEA) team and accommodate a small group of local community riders.
WALKER’S TRAINING LASTS A LIFETIME Our program provides our girls with extraordinary preparation for both riding and life. All riding students take three lessons per week with options for both group and private instruction. At the varsity and junior varsity levels, students are also required to complete training sessions in our personal fitness center and attend Ground School, a horsemanship and equine care class, once a week. Many of Walker’s equestrian alumnae return annually for our spring Alumnae Ride and a number continue to compete at the highest levels both nationally and internationally.
www.ethelwalker.org/riding