Equestrian Overview
It’s an exciting time to be a QMS rider! With the recent completion of our new Indoor Riding Arena, students are enjoying the bright and spacious state-of-the-art facility. This Olympic sized Dressage ring is the envy of the Equestrian community and we are proud to offer our students access to such a stunning arena.
The goal of the QMS Equestrian Program is to produce knowledgeable, skilled, responsible, interactive members of the equestrian community, whether they ride competitively or for fun. Rider training focuses on Hunter, Jumper, Equitation, Dressage and Eventing, providing a sound base for every rider. Graduates of the QMS Equestrian program are seen as exceptionally well educated both in the saddle and in the barn. QMS offers completion of the Equine Canada Rider Levels.
Recognizing the discipline and effort required of a committed rider we encourage and support students enrolled in the school who wish to pursue this interest while maintaining solid academic standards. The recreational rider is also offered a safe, fun learning environment. Students may use their own horse, a school horse or a leased horse. All riders are expected to be directly involved to some degree with the care of a horse or horses as outlined in the stable management routine.
Lessons are scheduled during Physical Education classes or after school hours. Riding shows take place on weekends.
Riders are grouped according to experience in order to best develop the skills required for beginning English Basic Seat through to the advanced skills required for competition in Hunter, Jumper, Equitation, Dressage and Combined Training. Students earn applied skills credits for graduation taking riding as a course option or as part of a Physical Education Program. We hold several informal local shows as well as schooling and two major Hunter/Jumper Shows each year. Riders have the opportunity to compete in British Columbia, Alberta, and the Pacific Northwest. Many aspire to compete at the Royal in the CET Medal Finals.
QMS Staff include Equine Canada certified coaches with successful competitive backgrounds as riders and trainers. Qualified high profile clinicians are brought in each term to enhance our riding program. The school’s own facilities include a 20,000 square foot indoor arena and a 130’ X 240’ outdoor competition ring with lighting for night riding. Paddocks and breezeway style stabling provide a healthy environment for forty stabled horses.
Queen Margaret’s unique Equine Sciences program is recognized by the Ministry of Education as a Grade 11/12 credit course and is offered to qualified students enrolled in Grades 10-12. Additional opportunities include a working student program and preparation for Equine Canada Coaching Certification. The Shirley Burr Equestrian Scholarship is also available to qualified students enrolled in the “Train to Compete” Program.
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