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General

What qualification is needed to become a riding instructor?

26 Feb 2025·6 min read
General

Becoming a riding instructor is an exciting choice for those who love horses and teaching. However, certain training and diploma requirements must be met. The minimum requirement is a high school diploma or its equivalent.

The main training programs to become a riding instructor are the BPJEPS, the DEJEPS, and the professional license in equestrian management. It is also important to obtain a professional card to practice legally.

Riding instructor training

Main key points to remember:

  • The high school diploma is the minimum requirement to become a riding instructor
  • The main training programs are the BPJEPS, the DEJEPS, and the professional license in equestrian management
  • Obtaining a professional card is mandatory to practice this regulated profession
  • Diplomas and certifications in riding allow you to acquire the necessary technical and pedagogical skills
  • Certified training centers offer tailored programs to train as a riding instructor

Overview of the riding instructor profession

The profession of riding instructor is thrilling within equestrian sports. These professionals teach the basics of riding, from initiation to competition. They ensure the safety of riders, select the mounts, and share their passion.

Roles and responsibilities of the riding instructor

Riding instructors give lessons and coordinate exams. Their daily work includes:

  • Assessing students and creating training programs
  • Ensuring safety by checking equipment and facilities
  • Caring for the horses
  • Organizing competitions
  • Advising students on riding

Qualities required to be a good riding instructor

To excel, a riding instructor must possess certain qualities:

  1. Pedagogy: Clearly convey knowledge
  2. Authority: Manage a group and uphold safety rules
  3. Independence: Organize sessions independently
  4. Organizational skills: Rigorously manage the center and the horses
  5. Passion for riding: Share enthusiasm with students

The profession of riding instructor combines technical, pedagogical, and organizational skills. All of this is supported by a passion for horses and teaching.

Training and diplomas to become a riding instructor

To become a riding instructor, several training programs and diplomas are available. The main equestrian employment prerequisites include the BPJEPS option "Equestrian Activities", which is completed in 1 to 2 years after high school. The DEJEPS specialty "Sports Improvement, mention Equestrian Sports" is accessible after a bac+2 and lasts for 2 years. The professional license "Management of Equestrian Establishments" is also a recognized training, lasting one year after a bac+2.

These equestrian studies are offered in training centers accredited by the Ministry of Sports. A good technical level in riding (minimum gallop 7) and prior competition experience are generally required for entry into the riding instructor training program.

Diploma Level Duration
BPJEPS option "Equestrian Activities" After high school 1 to 2 years
DEJEPS specialty "Sports Improvement, mention Equestrian Sports" After a bac+2 2 years
Professional license "Management of Equestrian Establishments" After a bac+2 1 year

Necessary diplomas and certifications

The main training programs to become a riding instructor are the BPJEPS, the DEJEPS, and the professional license. These diplomas are recognized in the sector and awarded by accredited training centers.

Accredited training centers

Training for riding instructors is provided in centers accredited by the Ministry of Sports. These establishments are responsible for training future professionals in equestrian teaching, imparting the necessary technical and pedagogical skills.

What diploma is needed to become a riding instructor?

To become a riding instructor, a minimum of a high school diploma is required. Recommended diplomas include the general bac, the STG technological bac (Management Sciences and Technologies), or the professional bac. It is crucial to acquire the necessary technical and pedagogical skills. This is achieved through specialized training at the BPJEPS, DEJEPS, or professional license level.

Here are some important points:

  • The minimum required level is the high school diploma or equivalent
  • The most suitable diplomas are the general bac, the STG technological bac, and the professional bac
  • A specialized training program at the BPJEPS, DEJEPS, or professional license level is essential to develop the necessary technical and pedagogical skills

Whether you choose the bac to become a riding instructor, training for equestrian professions is essential. It allows you to acquire the knowledge and skills necessary to teach riding professionally.

Job prospects and possible careers

Equestrian centers are major employers for qualified riding instructors. Their numbers are increasing, offering great employment prospects. However, some jobs may be seasonal or part-time.

After a few years, riding instructors can become instructors or center managers. Others prefer to open their own equestrian center.

Employment prospects in equestrian centers

  • Teaching various equestrian disciplines (dressage, show jumping, ethology, etc.)
  • Supervising initiation and improvement sessions
  • Organizing events and workshops
  • Managing the stable and the well-being of the horses

Career advancement and entrepreneurship opportunities

  1. Become a specialized instructor or trainer
  2. Take responsibility for an equestrian center
  3. Create your own equestrian structure (equestrian center, boarding, etc.)
  4. Develop equestrian tourism activities
Position Key Skills Career Prospects
Riding Instructor Pedagogy, technical expertise, horse management Instructor, center manager, entrepreneur
Instructor Advanced expertise, teaching qualities, leadership Center manager, activity development
Center Manager Team management, administrative skills, organizational sense Business creation, activity diversification

Riding instructor career

Working conditions and remuneration

The profession of riding instructor is practiced outdoors. It takes place in a natural environment ideal for this sport. The working conditions vary according to the season. Hours are often variable and can be long, especially on weekends.

This job, which requires effort, offers attractive salary prospects. The starting salary is around 1,555 euros gross per month. For the most experienced instructors, this salary can rise up to 2,196 euros gross per month.

It is rare for riding instructors to remain in this profession for their entire lives. Many subsequently become owners or managers of equestrian centers.

Experience Level Gross Monthly Salary
Beginner About 1,555 euros
Experienced Up to 2,196 euros

Tips and tricks for success in this profession

To become an excellent riding instructor, it is essential to develop good technical and pedagogical skills. Start by practicing riding regularly. This will help you master riding techniques and horse care.

The riding instructor must also know how to convey their knowledge. It is important to undergo training, learn pedagogical methods, and communicate effectively. These skills are key to excelling in this profession.

Developing technical and pedagogical skills

  • Improve your riding practice through continuous training
  • Acquire pedagogical techniques to effectively convey knowledge
  • Develop communication skills and student supervision
  • Demonstrate versatility and adaptability to meet each student's needs

Cultivating a passion for horses and teaching

It is crucial to love horses and enjoy teaching. This passion enables the riding instructor to overcome challenges. It also transmits their enthusiasm to the students.

Key Skills Passion for the profession
  • Mastery of equestrian techniques
  • Pedagogy and communication
  • Versatility and adaptability
  • Love for horses
  • Pleasure in teaching
  • Intrinsic motivation

riding instructor skills

By developing these technical and pedagogical skills and loving horses and teaching, the riding instructor will succeed. They will provide an enriching experience for their students.

Conclusion

Becoming a riding instructor requires specialized training at the high school level. This allows for the acquisition of the necessary technical and pedagogical skills. Equestrian centers offer numerous employment opportunities.

It is possible to advance to more specialized positions or create your own structure. This profession is physical and demanding. It requires a true passion for horses and teaching.

With the right diplomas and necessary qualities, the profession of riding instructor is fulfilling. It is ideal for sports and nature enthusiasts.

In summary, becoming a riding instructor offers great future prospects. It is a rewarding professional path for those who love horses and teaching.

FAQ

What level of diploma is required to become a riding instructor?

To become a riding instructor, you must at least have a high school diploma. Recommended diplomas are the general bac, the STG bac, or the professional bac.

What are the main training programs to become a riding instructor?

The main training programs are the BPJEPS in the option "Sports Educator, Equestrian Activities", the DEJEPS in the specialty "Sports Improvement, mention Equestrian Sports", and the license "Management of Equestrian Establishments".

What are the missions and responsibilities of a riding instructor?

A riding instructor teaches basic techniques and initiation to competition. They ensure the safety of riders and select the mounts. They share their passion and support the progress of students.

What qualities are required to be a good riding instructor?

A good instructor must be pedagogical, have authority, be autonomous, and well-organized. They must also be attentive to safety.

What are the main job opportunities for riding instructors?

Equestrian centers are the main employers. With more licensed riders and new disciplines, opportunities are abundant. However, some positions may be seasonal or part-time.

What are the career advancement and evolution prospects for riding instructors?

After a few years, instructors can become trainers or center managers. Some open their own equestrian centers.

What are the working conditions and remuneration for riding instructors?

Work is often done outdoors, with variable hours. The starting salary is around the minimum wage, which can reach up to 2,196 euros gross per month for the most experienced.

What are the tips and tricks for succeeding in the profession of riding instructor?

To succeed, develop your technical and pedagogical skills. Being versatile, organized, and having good communication skills is important. A love for horses and the joy of teaching are essential.

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