While Natural Horsemanship in itself is a relatively simple concept, taking the step from normal to natural can be a lot to learn.  Communicating with the horse on his terms is much like learning a new language.  For this reason we have created a step-by-step education programme that allows students to layer their knowledge or savvy and develop it as they go.

The Quantum Savvy programme consists of 10 Levels, each of which is like a stepping-stone in your progress toward horsemanship.  The first 3 of these levels form what we call the 'Foundation Programme' - the programme in which you will learn the skills required and develop a level of proficiency, to become a horseman.  The Foundation Programme is just that - your foundations, or basics upon which you will build.  The importance of good foundations should never be under estimated, as these first 3 Levels are where your good habits and dependable relationships with your horse are formed.  Imagine becoming the kind of leader your horse truly respects and admires and will give that extra bit of heart and desire for.  Imagine having the kind of horse you could take anywhere, anytime with confidence!

Beyond the Foundation Programme is the Horseman"s Programme  Levels 4 to 7; where professional programmes, high level performance and sports are studied.  Beyond this again is the study of horsemanship as an art form in Levels 8 to 10.

Where do I begin?

As with all things, the best place to start is the beginning, with the Foundation Programme; Levels 1, 2 & 3.  And at the beginning of each Level our foundations are laid first on the ground.  Long before you get on a horse, its important to make sure that you have some sort of communication and rapport between the two of you.  Remember, the horse is a prey animal and we are predators.  How would you feel if a lion suddenly jumped on your back?  You might not feel too happy about it.  So, first we prepare, earn their trust and respect and build a relationship to ensure that when we do get on, they are happy and accepting of us.  Everything we do, can and should be prepared on the ground first.  This is about building knowledge, savvy and skills.  Life then, is so much easier when it comes to riding as our horse has truly given us permission to be up there.

So what can I expect in each Level?

Level 1  basic skills and safety.

This is the beginning of the journey, learning the language of the horse, creating and building self-confidence for yourself and your horse, developing great leadership skills and earning your horses respect.

In Level 1 youll Learn.

• To communicate more effectively with your horse.  For most people, everyday problems and some more serious ones will be resolved at this level.
• Equine psychology, why they do what they do.
• To have a more willing, co-operative horse with far more positive ground manners.
• How to float load safely and easily.
• Safe and practical saddling and riding techniques.
• To have your horse going forward confidently and easily - plus sideways and backwards as well!
• To stop your horse with just your body energy and one rein.

Level 2  confidence and emotional fitness.

Level 2 is all about developing mental, emotional and physical fitness, with a big focus on emotional. for both you and your horse.   Confident forward movement for your horse in all gaits, an improved independent seat for you and getting in time and harmony for the two of you are key elements of this level.

In Level 2 youll Learn.

• How to communicate with your horse on longer lines and at greater distances.
• To have more fluent language skills and a two-way conversation through playing with your horse without any lead ropes at liberty.
• To have your horse actively seeking what you are asking him to do.
• How to build your horses confidence and have him handle obstacles like jumps and flight tests with ease from further away.
• Positive patterns for building true impulsion for your horse.and you.
• Confidence in riding at all gaits.
• Bareback riding skills, improve your independent seat.
• Contact riding  two short reins and soft feel. Footfalls, diagonals, leads and lead changes, galloping, jumping,
• Cherokee bridle and so much  more.

Level 3  refinement and performance.

In Level 3, take all of the skills you have learnt through Levels 1 and 2 and begin to hone and refine them.  Cues and phases become imperceptible, rein positions and body dynamics less exaggerated.  This level puts all the pieces together.

In Level 3 youll Learn.

• To have positive reflexes on even longer lines, at liberty and in new sections of your horse.
• To be fluent and accurate in your communication.
• To lighten your cues and phases so your communication becomes almost invisible.
• Long reining.
• Transitions and flying lead changes at liberty.
• Faster gaits on line and bigger jumps.
• Transitions, lead changes and jumping.all with two Savvy Sticks.
• Soft Feel and collection in all gaits, in all directions.
• Collected simple and flying lead changes, regulations of gaits and counter canter.
• To get in time and rhythm with your horse and influence each foot individually.

Find out about studying the Foundation programme through Home Study and Events