· I understand that riding at any standard has inherent risk and that all horses may react unpredictably on occasions. I may fall off and could be injured - I accept that risk.
· I understand that while STE staff and helpers in charge will take all reasonable care of me and/or my child, unless they are negligent, they cannot be held responsible for any loss, damage or injury suffered by me/my child arising, during or out of the activity.
· I understand that instructions are given for my safety and agree to follow instructions given to me by staff and instructors of the riding school and will make sure my child understands the same.
· I reserve the right not to ride a horse/pony allocated to me and may request a change of instructor.
· I understand that wearing an appropriate riding hat and body protector may reduce the severity of an injury should an accident happen and agree that I will always wear a hat when riding or leading horses on STE premises. I agree that any riding hat I wear will comply with current safety standards. I understand that body protectors are compulsory for pole work, jumping and hacking for anyone under the age of 18 and are highly recommended for all for these activities for everyone.
· I understand that I may borrow a hat and boots from STE and agree to look after them and return them before leaving the facility. I understand that the riding school staff will give guidance on what to look for when fitting my own/my child’s riding hat, but are not qualified hat fitters, so I am responsible for choosing a suitable hat. I am aware that slides, clips and grips should not be worn in hair underneath a hat. I understand that I am advised to invest in my own hat and boots for optimum comfort, performance and fit. I am aware that muckers, rubber boots and wellies are permitted for yard duties but are not suitable riding footwear.
· I understand that appropriate riding attire is essential for maintaining safety standards. I agree to the following dress code for STE:
No hooded tops or coats and no scarves,
No jeans – only jodhpurs or leggings,
No fashion jewellery or piercings of any kind - these must be removed or covered if new,
No strappy tops or fashion tops that leave the shoulders uncovered,
Suitable footwear - no fashion boots, trainers, high heels, deck shoes, no open toe shoes.
Long hair tied back at all times.
· I understand that the riding school will make decisions based on information I give them and agree to always be honest and volunteer information about:
My abilities and riding experience,
Any previous riding accidents,
Any medical condition(s) which may affect my ability to ride.
· I understand that children are at particular risk around horses and agree that I will keep children (especially siblings) that I am responsible for, under close supervision when they are not under instruction.
· I understand that the riding school may refuse my request to ride for safety or operational reasons.
· I understand that competing carries an enhanced risk over and above general riding and agree that if I choose to participate in any competition or event, it is up to me to ensure that I have the experience and ability to meet the demands of the class I have chosen to enter. If I am in any doubt, I will use my judgement and experience and not enter.
Adults who are supporting their children's participation must remember to lead by example, as their child will be influenced by attitudes and behaviours seen in their parents. As a result, parents are reminded to show:
- Respect for other riders/competitors/show officials/instructors/members of staff/parents;
- Appropriate language and manners;
- Empathy and encouragement for those who are struggling;
- Consideration for the welfare and happiness of the ponies;
- Enthusiasm for participation and effort;
- Respect for the instructor and to refrain from interfering in a lesson/coaching session (even though your intentions may be good, it is distracting to riders and can be counter-productive);
- Respect for the wishes of their child and the child's own aims and ambitions.
In addition to the sportsmanship ethic above, please note the following requirements of adults/parents at STE:
· Parents/adults are welcome to watch lessons, but must comply with both health and safety and child protection guidelines.
· Do not enter the riding arena unless requested to do so by an instructor or member of staff – even if you child has had an accident and you are watching, please wait to be called in – this is for the safety of all.
· Parents/Guardians/Visitors are asked to keep any other children under close control and make sure that all children are reminded not to run/scream/shout/play in the vicinity of the arena or the barn.
· Parents must collect their child from the STE office in person as we will not send children out to cars. Please report directly to the office if coming to collect your child.
· If you are not collecting your own child and are sending an alternative adult, please notify us in advance.
· If your child is not coming to their riding lesson, please notify us as soon as possible (please also see the cancellation policy).
· All adults are respectfully asked not to sit in the car park with their headlights on when lessons are running in the dark – it is distracting to ponies, riders, leaders and instructors and therefore dangerous.
· No photos or videos are to be taken without the express permission of the instructor or member of staff in charge and must only be of your child (except in special circumstances). If other children are evident in the background or in exceptional group photographs then these MUST NOT BE POSTED ON SOCIAL MEDIA SITES.
· We are a no dog site.
· Any adults that do not have children at St Teresa’s are not permitted on any other part of school property than the driveways, car parks and STE grounds.
· Please notify any adults who are coming to collect your child/watch a lesson/spectate at any activities we may be running that they are also bound by this code of conduct and advise them of the contents therein.
· Please treat staff and instructors with respect, if there are any issues do speak to the staff member in charge. Being rude, using foul or abusive language, or being violent or aggressive will not be tolerated.
· If you have any questions or concerns about anything to do with STE, please get in touch with us directly so that we can ensure a productive, safe and enjoyable time for yourself and/or your child.
