Do you dream of becoming a riding instructor? We will show you great schools and training programs. You will need at least a high school diploma to get started. The training lasts 1 to 2 years and will allow you to earn the BPJEPS. This diploma allows you to teach riding, from beginners to competition level.
Training costs range from 6,000 to 12,000 euros. However, you can find ways to pay for it more easily.

Main Findings
- Riding instructor schools in France offer 1 to 2 years of training to obtain the BPJEPS diploma.
- The BPJEPS allows you to teach riding independently, from beginner to competition level.
- Training costs are generally between 6,000 and 12,000 euros and can be financed.
- The required entry level is the high school diploma or equivalent.
- The profession of riding instructor offers many job opportunities in riding centers and stables.
The Responsibilities of a Riding Instructor
As a riding instructor, you will teach brand new riders. Your mission is also to assist experienced riders. You will help them prepare for competitions. You will be both a good teacher and a reassuring figure who always thinks about safety.
From Introduction to Competition
At first, you will teach the basics to those who have never ridden, such as how to mount a horse. For experienced riders, you will train them to succeed in exams or competitions. You must ensure that everyone follows safety rules, such as wearing a helmet and properly equipping the horses.
Your work will primarily take place outdoors. You will need to have authority to maintain the group. From time to time, you will also help care for the horses, showing that you can do many different things.
Sometimes, you will participate in organizing exams or horseback rides in the forest. This shows that you are capable of managing intense projects.
Becoming a riding instructor is an opportunity to share your love for horses. Your role as a teacher and reassurer is crucial. You will help your students become independent and succeed, while ensuring their safety.
Schools to Become a Riding Instructor
Required Training and Diplomas
After middle school, you can start training. This training lasts about 1 year for the CQP (Professional Qualification Certificate) as a riding instructor. It can be taken with or without a high school diploma or equivalent.
You can also choose to become a sports educator by obtaining the BPJEPS. This training lasts 1 to 2 years. Alternatively, you can opt for the DEJEPS, which takes 2 years after high school.
Finally, a professional license in management of equestrian establishments is available. It takes 1 year after a Bac+2.
It is also necessary to have a good reputation. This means not having been convicted. Additionally, you will need a professional card for this regulated profession.
| Diploma | Duration | Prerequisites |
|---|---|---|
| CQP Riding Instructor | 1 year | After middle school |
| BPJEPS Sports Educator, specializing in equestrian activities | 1 to 2 years | With or without a high school diploma or equivalent |
| DEJEPS Specialty in sports improvement, specializing in equestrian sports | 2 years | Bac+2 |
| Professional License in management of equestrian establishments | 1 year | Bac+2 |
In addition to the diploma, honorability is crucial. This means avoiding any legal issues. Having a professional card is essential for these strict professions.

The Qualities of a Good Riding Instructor
To be an excellent riding instructor, it is not enough to be a good rider. You also need to have other important qualities. They will help you teach with passion and enrich others.
Having a sense of hospitality and a desire to reach out to others is key. You must establish trust with your students. You will guide them with kindness in their learning process.
A taste for collective adventures and enthusiasm are also important. You will need to create lively lessons and motivate your students, regardless of their level or age.
- Enjoying nature and animals and living outdoors will also be noticed by your students.
- A good sense of organization is crucial. You will need it to manage classes and equipment.
- The desire to share your passion is essential. This will inspire and guide your students.
Developing these qualities will make you a remarkable riding instructor. You will be able to share your knowledge and enhance your students' enjoyment of horses.
School to Become a Riding Instructor
Do you dream of becoming a riding instructor? The riding schools, equestrian centers, and equestrian establishments are made for you. They provide everything necessary to learn in complete safety.
You can pursue diploma studies there, such as the BPJEPS.
This diploma will make you independent in this field. It covers various skills, from introduction to competition.
What Does a Riding School Offer?
- Theoretical and practical courses on riding, equine ethology, and pedagogy
- Practical internships in partner equestrian centers
- Preparation for regulatory exams and diplomas
- Personalized support throughout the training
The Main Diplomas Offered
| Diploma | Level | Career Opportunities |
|---|---|---|
| BPJEPS (Professional Certificate of Youth, Popular Education, and Sport) | High school diploma | Teach riding independently |
| DEJEPS (State Diploma of Youth, Popular Education, and Sport) | Bac+2 | Teach and train in competition |
| DESJEPS (Higher State Diploma of Youth, Popular Education, and Sport) | Bac+3 | Manage an equestrian establishment |
No matter your level in riding. Thanks to these places, you can become the riding instructor you have always wanted to be.

Job Prospects and Career Advancement
Being a riding instructor opens up great opportunities due to the strong passion for horses. Jobs can be part-time or for a defined period. In France, there are hundreds of positions to fill each year.
After a minimum of 2 years, one can become an instructor. This new role paves the way for teaching experienced riders. Alternatively, you can define your path, working for yourself or managing a club. Overall, it is a profession that often allows for changes.
Many Hiring Opportunities
Equestrian centers are very popular, so instructors find work easily there. Even if the contract is not always permanent, there are hundreds of opportunities in the country each year.
- Job opportunities in equestrian clubs
- Possibility of advancement to the position of instructor
- Possibility of working independently or changing careers
Conclusion
To become a riding instructor, you must obtain a diploma such as the BPJEPS. This diploma teaches you to teach riding to beginners and competitors. You learn this in recognized schools, equestrian centers, and equestrian establishments.
This profession has great job prospects. You could become an instructor or manage a club. If you love horses and want to share your passion, then this profession is for you.
The riding instructor training combines pedagogy and riding. It prepares you to become a qualified riding instructor. You will be able to work in several equestrian academies and stables.
FAQ
What diplomas are necessary to become a riding instructor in France?
To teach riding in France, you need a diploma called BPJEPS. It is the Professional Certificate of Youth, Popular Education, and Sport. This is a state diploma at the Bac level that allows you to teach riding, from beginners to competition. You can also continue training with other complementary diplomas.
Where can one train to become a riding instructor?
To become a riding instructor, you can train at specific schools, equestrian centers, or equestrian establishments. They have the necessary facilities, such as riding arenas, to learn in complete safety. Qualified instructors will teach you everything about riding.
What are the main responsibilities of a riding instructor?
A riding instructor helps beginners learn the basics of riding. This includes choosing the horse and maintaining the correct posture in the saddle. She also trains more advanced riders for exams or competitions. The safety of everyone is a priority; she checks the equipment and ensures the well-being of the horses.
What qualities are required to be a good riding instructor?
Being a good rider is important. But it is especially essential to love sharing your passion with others. This person should be warm and enjoy adventures. She should also be organized and ready to introduce people to riding.
What are the job prospects for a riding instructor?
There is a high demand for riding instructors, so employment is generally easy to find. After a few years, some instructors become instructors, who train future riders. It is also possible to work independently or manage your own equestrian center.
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