Instructor Training & Certification

Internationally recognized, High Hopes is one of a handful of independent therapeutic riding centers throughout North America approved by the North American Riding for the Handicapped Association (NARHA) to offer an intensive eight-week instructor training and certification course.

Since 1996, High Hopes has trained over 140 students from throughout the United States and from 16 other countries. The course is taught in two parts, with both lecture and practicum components. Students receive experience in teaching both one-on-one and in group lessons. Our course faculty includes more than 10 experienced teachers with backgrounds in physical therapy, occupational therapy, speech and language pathology, master and advanced level instructing, trigger-point myotherapy, expressive therapies, recreational therapy, nonprofit management and fund development.

The diversity of our program participants and our therapy horses, combined with our skilled volunteers, provides a learning environment where students training to be instructors can advance their knowledge and skills, learning how to plan and implement safe, effective therapeutic riding lessons.

Course Prerequisites:

• 21 years of age or older
• Current NARHA membership
• CPR & first aid certification
• Knowledge of basic stable management and horse care
• Ability to ride at an advanced beginner level or higher (walk, trot, canter, leads, diagonals, simple ring patterns)

Riding instruction and volunteer experience in a therapeutic riding program are strongly encouraged.

For student residence during all courses, a quiet and comfortable guesthouse is located at a farm several miles from the High Hopes campus. Students must provide their own transportation and meals during the course.

Scholarships

Scholarships are available for Instructor Training Course students. Click here to download scholarship application form.

For information on the NARHA-approved instructor training course, please contact Kristin Mason, Special Programs Coordinator, at 860-434-1974, Ext. 18, or kmason@highhopestr.org.