Your journey to mastery starts here

Welcome to RSA Academy info. Discover our structured progression system designed to help every rider achieve their full potential. We're dedicated to guiding you through each stage, ensuring a rewarding and effective learning experience.

Our progression levels

At RSA Academy, we believe in a clear path for growth. Our five distinct levels are carefully crafted to support your development, from your very first ride to advanced horsemanship.

Level 1: beginners

Perfect for those completely new to riding. You'll learn the fundamental basics of horsemanship, building a strong foundation in a safe and supportive environment.

Level 2: improver rider

Designed for those with some initial experience, this level helps you build confidence and refine your basic riding skills. Progress at your own pace.

Level 3: confident rider

For riders ready to take on new challenges. Develop a deeper connection with your horse and master more complex riding techniques, enhancing your control and partnership.

Level 4: skilled rider

This level is for accomplished riders looking to perfect their technique. Focus on advanced skills, precision, and developing a sophisticated understanding of equestrian arts.

Level 5: advanced rider

The pinnacle of our programme, tailored for expert riders. Challenge yourself with high-level disciplines and achieve true mastery in your chosen equestrian field.

Progress with us at RSA Academy

At RSA Academy, we're committed to helping every rider achieve their full potential. Our structured levels ensure a clear path for growth, fostering skills, confidence, and a deep understanding of horsemanship.

How we assign levels

Choosing the right level is crucial for effective learning. Unlike other academies, we carefully assess each individual's skills and experience to place them in the most suitable level. This ensures personalised progress and a challenging yet comfortable environment.

How we help

Our academy is designed to help people progress. From beginners to advanced riders, each level at RSA Academy is a stepping stone towards mastery. We focus on practical skills, theoretical knowledge, and building a profound connection with horses, guiding you every step of the way.

Level 1:

Level 1- Beginner.

Focus: Safety, Confidence and basic control.

Riding skills;

  • Correct mounting and dismounting (with help)
  • Balanced position at walk
  • Steer and halt at walk
  • Basic trot on lead or assisted
  • Ride simple shapes (circle, turns)

Horsemanship

  • Basic grooming
  • Identifies main tack parts
  • Understands basic stable safety rules

Ready to progress when:

  • Rider is calm and confident
  • Listens and follows instructions
  • Controls horse safely at walk/trot

Level 2:

Level 2- improver rider:

Focus: independence and balance                                                           

 Riding skills:

  • Walk and trot independently
  • Rising trot with balance
  • Steering accurately
  • Walk-trot transitions
  • Basic polework at trot

Horsemanship:

  • Grooms independently
  • Helps tack up with supervision
  • Knows basic horse  behavior signals

Horsemanship:

  • Grooms independently
  • Helps tack up with supervision

Knows basic horse  behavior signals

Ready to progress when:

  • Maintains balance in trot
  • Can steer and stop independently
  • Shows care and responsibility

Level 3:

Level 3- confident rider

Focus: control, rhythm, awareness

Riding skills:

  • Balanced walk, trot, and canter
  • Smooth transitions
  • Riding without stirrups (short periods)
  • Polework and small grids
  • Maintains correct position

Horsemanship:

  • Tacks up independently
  • Basic horse health checks
  • Correct warm-up and cool-down

Ready to progress when

  • Canters confidently
  • Uses clear aids
  • Thinks ahead and rides safely

Level 4:

Riding skills:

  • Controlled flatwork in all paces
  • Accurate transitions
  • Jumping small courses (if offered)
  • Riding different horses confidently
  • Improved feel and timing

Horsemanship:

  • Tack fit awareness
  • Horse fitness basics
  • Groundwork skills

 

Ready to progress when:

  • Rides with consistency
  • Adapts to different horses
  • Supports young riders positively

Level 5:

Riding skills:

  • Polished flatwork
  • Jumping full courses/ advanced polework
  • Problem-solving while riding
  • Competition or assessment readiness

Horsemanship:

  • High standard of care
  • Injury and welfare awareness
  • Helps with yard routines
  • Mentors other riders

Responsibility:

  • Trusted rider status
  • Leadership roles
  • Assistant opportunities (age-appropriate)