At Kings Meadow, we want to learn as much about the rider as possible ahead of the first lesson. Before lessons start, we meet with the rider for a facility tour and to learn about past riding experience, goals, fears, medical issues that may need attention while riding, discuss clothing for riding and helmet fitting.

During the facility tour, the rider will be shown the stables, the indoor and outdoor arenas, viewing area, paddocks, quarantine stalls, and shown where the lesson horses' tack is kept. Riders will also be told the rules of the barn and show you where they're posted around the facility.

Before your first lesson, King's Meadow's Lesson Waiver of Liability Release Form will need to be completed. We will take the time to explain the different sections to you during your first visit.

Kings Meadow has implemented a Beginner Level Theory and Riding program that includes riding, horse care and horsemanship for Hunter, Jumper, Dressage, Equitation and Western.

The program is designed for students currently taking riding lessons and are steadfast in an ongoing commitment to equestrian activities.

It is necessary for all students to successfully complete all levels consecutively prior to attending a more advanced theory class (if theory is part of their program).

All students are able to take part if theory classes. Theory classes are held either immediately prior to or immediately following a cloaching session. Some theory will be offered throughout the year on designated weekends.

Riders participating in the program will receive a binder to track accomplishments and details of the KMEC riding program.

At KMEC, our emphasis is on the ongoing education of a well-rounded rider. Horse knowledge outside the ring is as important as horse knowledge inside the ring. We teach horsemanship techniques which promote partnership between horse and rider. With the philosophy that the horse can't move properly until the rider is positioned properly, head coach Ashley Van der Hout teaches riders how their body affects their horses' movement.

KMEC Riding Academy's head coach and owner, Ashley Van der Hout, has extensive training in hunter equitation, jumpers, dressage and western pleasure. Ashley started riding at a very young age, and became committed by the age of 6-years-old when recognized in Germany for her natural talent. 

Since then, she has continued her career in the equine field and trains with a European style to riding. Currently, Ashley is working toward competition coach specialist certification. 

Ashley has trained under multiple recognized trainers, inheriting different techniques and broadening her perspective and training abilities. If you have been unable to reach your goal in the past, there is a way and she will uncover that path to success by enhancing the ability of horse and rider.

NCCP Certified Instructor Riley Denoon

Riley was brought into riding through the Canadian Pony Club when she was nine. This is when she started to learn valuable horsemanship and stable management skills. Later on she started competing on the A Circuit in the medal classes, hunters and jumpers. She completed her full NCCP Instructor Certification with the jump module in the summer of 2019.  

Canadian Pony Club Certified Instructor

Brittany Papiez-Lopata

Brittany began riding at the age of 7, starting in a lesson program like many young riders. She is currently working towards her Registered Equine Coach certification and has years of experience in the competitive show ring, including competing on the Trillium circuit and successfully moving her mount up to the 3'3" level in the local Silver Series. Recently, Brittany has expanded her focus into the Canadian sports horse world, working with young horses both in hand and under saddle.

With over 10 years of training under Ashley Van Der Hout, Brittany has developed a patient, individualized approach to coaching. As an equitation-focused coach, she emphasizes proper rider position and balance, which lays the foundation for success in both the show ring and everyday riding. Brittany is dedicated to helping riders of all levels gain confidence, improve their skills, and reach their goals. She focuses on building solid foundations for both horse and rider, with an emphasis on horsemanship, long-term development, and achieving success through a strong partnership.

You can ask to see coaching certificates at any time when you're at Kings Meadow.

Absolutely! Kings Meadow has full liability insurance for its coaches through BFL Canada. 

KMEC has a large variety of horses (ponies, thoroughbreds, draft cross, etc.) for our lesson program. You can view our current Lesson Team below.

Before your first lesson, King's Meadow's Lesson Waiver of Liability Release Form will need to be completed. 

Our release form includes a waiver of liability, visitor release statement and photo release statement. We will take the time to explain the different sections to you during your first visit and answer any questions.

Primary Nutritionist & Development expert - Robert Fera

Blacksmith - *Mike Smith & Kyle David

Dr Feng Lee - *Chiropractor (rider, horse)

Lori Berardinucci - *Chiropractor

Saddle Fitter - *Julie Walter of CWD

(Please note if using different providers, you are required to be attending for your appt) *

*additional charge if KMEC staff has to attend.