Best Horsemanship Classes for kids in Burlingame

 

Leyden Horsemanship is more than a riding school—it’s a place where profound connections are forged between horse and human, inspiring growth, confidence, and lifelong learning. Nestled just south of San Francisco, our academy is built on three pillars: connection, communication, and confidence. Drawing on the time-tested principles of the Dorrance Brothers, Ray Hunt, and Buck Brannaman, we’ve crafted a suite of programs that meet students wherever they are on their horsemanship journey—and carry them far beyond the arena.

Natural Horsemanship Lessons & Training Programs

At the heart of Leyden Horsemanship are our private and group lessons, designed to cultivate true partnership:

Fundamental Principles

We ground every student in the natural horsemanship philosophies of the Dorrance Brothers, Ray Hunt, and Buck Brannaman. By recognizing the horse’s natural instincts and psychology, riders learn to become clear, calm, and consistent leaders.

best horsemanship classes for kids in Burlingame

Groundwork & Liberty Training

Before ever mounting, students dive into groundwork and liberty exercises. These sessions build mutual respect and safety, teaching horses to respond to subtle cues and riders to develop a nuanced feel for balance and timing.

Western-Focused Riding Instruction

From your first trot to advanced maneuvers, our instructors guide you through Western riding techniques suited to both trail and arena. Whether you’re learning to neck-rein or perfect your lope-wop, our progressive curriculum ensures steady, confident improvement.

Confidence Building

For riders returning from injury, overcoming fear, or simply taking the reins for the first time, we tailor lessons that foster trust—in yourself, your instructor, and most importantly, your equine partner.

Youth Horsemanship Classes

Our youth classes focus on leadership, empathy, and responsibility. Through hands-on activities and horse-care tasks, children learn emotional regulation and social skills in a supportive, team-oriented environment.

Kids & Teen Programs

We believe that riding isn’t just a sport—it’s a classroom for life skills. Our youth offerings include:

Summer Horse Camps

Multi-day immersive camps where campers engage in daily riding, stable management, and team challenges designed to boost self-esteem and social bonds.

After-School Horsemanship

Weekly sessions that reinforce school-day lessons with responsibility and routine, giving young riders a positive, goal-oriented outlet.

Weekend Leadership Workshops

Focused on communication and problem solving, these one- or two-day intensives teach teens how to motivate, mentor, and manage both horses and peers.

Student Assistant Programs

For committed teens ready to take on more responsibility, our assistant positions offer mentorship, leadership roles in camp activities, and the chance to deepen their technical skills.

Across all youth programs, students emerge with greater patience, consistency, and the emotional regulation necessary for success in—and out of—the saddle.

Horsemanship Academy & E-Learning

For those craving deeper mastery, our Level One Horsemanship Academy offers:

Structured Curriculum

A comprehensive roadmap covering theory, practical skills, and horse-management best practices.

Multi-Modal Learning

In-person clinics, live demos, and self-paced video lessons allow students to tailor their educational path to their schedule and learning style.

Assessments & Feedback

Quizzes, homework assignments, and instructor reviews ensure that students not only absorb information but demonstrate proficiency before advancing.

Community Support

A private online forum connects students, alumni, and instructors, fostering peer-to-peer learning, troubleshooting, and shared celebration of milestones.

At Leyden Horsemanship, our mission extends beyond drills and disciplines. We strive to create transformative experiences that spark personal growth, strengthen human-animal bonds, and equip our students with skills that resonate through every aspect of their lives. Whether you’re brushing off your first chaps or polishing your show-ring performance, you’ll find a supportive, philosophy-driven community ready to help you—and your horse—thrive.