The ABRS has Britain's longest established riding school approval scheme (since 1954).  It is the only organisation solely representing professional riding school proprietors and is thus ideally placed to assist and guide young people seeking careers with horses.  It has a wide ranging examination and testing system which enables teenagers to build up worthwhile gradings and certificates in preparation for leaving school and taking up full time training.

Click here for the Standards required for approval

Click here to find an approved riding school in the UK or abroad

An 'Approved School' is an establishment which has been inspected and found to be satisfactory by one of the National Approved Schemes.  The Association of British Riding Schools conducts such a scheme, setting a high standard for horse care and requires to be satisfied that the instruction given is well presented and correct in content.  The size of the establishment is immaterial, we have both very large and very small fully approved member schools.  Some have only very basic facilities, but provided they meet our high standard of care and attention to both horse and rider, we are happy to accept them as members.  All riding schools, according to law, must hold a licence to operate their business.  The licence is granted by Local Authorities.

Approved establishments serve all sections of the riding public, whether they ride for pleasure or have more serious aspirations such as a career with horses or competitive endeavour.  Conferences and information days are conducted throughout the country at which members and the public may attend.  The object is to inspire, increase knowledge and keep standards high.

The Association wishes to reassure the riding public that if they select an ABRS Approved School, they should receive sound instruction on suitable horses and ponies using good, safe and well kept saddlery.  Obviously the level of instruction may vary between establishments but all standards are available, and information is contained in the membership list in the Handbook.

Once a school is approved, the Association expects the standard to be maintained at all times.

Two forms need to be completed to apply for membership, one for personal details and one for licensing details; please follow the relevant links.  Both forms need to be returned to the ABRS.