Lessons & Training

Ponca offers on site professional training and an outstanding school program to allow riders at all levels to pursue their goals.

The Ponca School Program

Learn to Ride!

jumping pony

For beginning and intermediate riders without horses of their own, the Ponca School Program offers qualified instruction on gentle, confidence building school horses. Parents can observe from the comfort of our heated viewing lounge.

viewing lounge

Policies

Open to girls and boys ages 7 and up
Beginners start with private lessons until riding independently enough to join a group lesson.
A minimum of one lesson per week is recommended. We guarantee it will be your child's favorite day of the week!
All students learn to groom and tack their lesson horse independently and properly put away their horse and tack after the lesson.
Students must arrive at least 30 minutes prior to lesson time.

Attire

Students must have safe riding attire. These items are available at State Line Tack online, or locally at The Paddock in Omaha where an expert can help fit your child from head to toe.

ASTM certified riding helmet (helmets can be borrowed from the School Program, but most students prefer to fit their own helmet).
Breeches, jodphurs or schooling tights
Paddock boots or tall riding boots.
Fitted top such as a polo shirt, tucked in with a belt to allow instructors to see body position. Insulted short jackets or vests for cold weather.
Long hair must be neatly pulled back in a bun or pony tail
Chewing gum is not permitted.
Dangling jewelry or scarves are not permitted.

xc lesson

Prices

Private School lesson (1 hour) - $60
Group School lesson (1 hour) - $45
Prepaid packages available.

Cancellation

24-hour notice of cancellation must be received or full charges apply.
Cancellation notices can be sent by text, phone or email to your instructor.

To schedule a lesson, or to tour the Ponca School Program, please call 402-453-4000 or email lessons@poncahillsfarm.com.

Ride and Train with Natalie Shaw

Ponca's Resident Trainer, Omaha native Natalie Shaw learned to ride at Ponca Hills farm, and went on to be named captain of her Equestrian Team at Kenyon College and compete on the IHSA Circuit. After college, Natalie worked as a groom for Olympian Anne Kursinski at her facility, Market Street, in New Jersey. Natalie specializes in building the basics with beginner riders of all ages. Natalie is available for lessons and training.

To schedule a lesson, please call 402-453-4000 or email lessons@poncahillsfarm.com.

Lesson Fees

TYPE OF LESSON	BOARDER	SCHOOL HORSE	HAUL-IN
1 hr Group (3-8 riders)	$35	$45	$50
1 hour Private	$50	$60	$65
30-Minute Private	$35	$45	$50

Training Ride Fees

Single Ride with Head Trainer - $35
Single Ride with Assistant Trainer - $25
Month of Full Training - $450
At Horse Show - $35

Practice Ride Fees

Practice your skills on a Ponca School Horse with trainer supervision - $25

Payment Policy

Lesson or training payment is due at time of service. Boarders may add a lesson or training package to their monthly board bill.

Cancellation

If you are unable to attend a scheduled lesson, we require 24 hours notice or full charges apply. Cancellations can be sent via text or by phone to your instructor.

Clinics at Ponca Hills Farm

In addition, Ponca Hills Farm frequently hosts top national clinicians for intensive learning weekends for riders at all levels. Overnight board is available for visiting horses.

For upcoming clinics, check "News and Events", Ponca on Facebook, or email us.

Lisa with ribbon