Who teaches the classes?

All Banbury Cross classes are taught by PATH Certified Instructors, who are required to complete 25 hours of continuing education each year as well as maintain current CPR/First Aid certification.

Where do your horses come from?

All Banbury Cross horses are donated to our program and go through a strict 1-2 month trial period before our riders are ever mounted. Our horses are thoroughly trained before they step foot into our arena-it's their job to train your rider, not the other way around!

Are your volunteers trained?

Absolutely. Prior to joining our program, all Banbury Cross volunteers undergo a comprehensive 2-hour orientation. This session covers essential topics such as safety protocols, barn etiquette, and our established policies and procedures. Ensuring the safety of everyone on our property is our utmost priority. Additionally, we enforce a minimum starting age of 12 for volunteers. While individuals of all ages may adore horses, we entrust our volunteers with significant responsibilities to uphold the safety of both riders and horses.

How Well Are Your Horses Cared For?

Banbury Cross  horses receive top-tier care that rivals our own—no kidding! Recognizing the indispensable role they play in our programs, we ensure they receive premium feed and supplements as necessary, along with regular farrier and veterinary attention. But it doesn't stop there. Our equine partners also benefit from chiropractic care, massages, acupuncture treatments, and a host of other beneficial services to keep them in peak condition!

What Unique Features Does Your Facility Offer?

Our standout feature is our heated, indoor arena, enabling year-round riding comfort and delivering optimal results for our riders. Additionally, we provide a heated and cooled observation room equipped with two bathrooms, allowing visitors to observe lessons comfortably. Our facility is entirely wheelchair accessible, ensuring inclusivity for all participants in events like summer camp and our horse show! 
 

How Can I Ensure My Rider Benefits Most from Lessons?

Prior to your rider mounting a horse, we conduct an initial evaluation at our barn. This not only provides you with a glimpse of our impressive facility and introduces you to our equine companions but also allows us to assess your rider's strengths, coordination, mobility, and flexibility. This assessment helps us tailor the tack, horse movement, and volunteer support to best suit their needs. Following each session, our instructors diligently compile progress reports and review individual goals to ensure we make the most of every lesson.​
 

What's Your Approach to Teaching?

At Banbury Cross, our instructors leverage their expertise to nurture and empower riders, fostering confidence without resorting to harsh or demeaning methods. We believe in instilling confidence and fostering enjoyment in riding as the most effective path to achieving our goals. Even when addressing behavioral adjustments, we prioritize quiet, constructive guidance.​