Interested in Joining the Team? Apply to our Student Program!
We value dedication, passion and commitment above all else. The student program is intensive! What you put in is what you get out. Our comprehensive 10-month program provides aspiring equestrians with unparalleled training in classical horsemanship and the opportunity to work with the magnificent Lipizzaner breed.
R40,000.00 for the full 10-month course
Monday to Saturday: 8:00am start
Actual finishing time may vary according to workload for the day and depends on the season and performance schedule.
Additional Requirements: Attendance at performances and events outside of normal working hours.
Students riding in the Youth Program may have opportunities to participate in performances, depending on their progress and skill level.
This is a privilege earned through dedication and skill development.
We follow a two-track qualification system enabling aspiring professionals in the equine industry access to theoretical training and practical experience, as well as providing the training needed to become part of the South African Lipizzaner performance team.
SANIP Certificate Modules:
At the South African Lipizzaners, students gain access to theoretical instruction and practical hours needed to successfully complete the exams for modules one and two. Under a recognised authority, students also accumulate dressage riding hours and teaching hours towards completing their module four qualification.
For the duration of our 10 month student program, students become actively involved in all aspects of the daily running of the South African Lipizzaner Centre. They become integral members of the team and learn key skills valued both nationally and internationally.
We pride ourselves in providing the foundation for producing leading voices in the ever-expanding equine industry. As an EQASA examination facility we provide not only training but also convenient accessibility to the successful completion of their formal qualifications.
Students graduate the program feeling fulfilled, challenged and confident in their ability to go on in either a professional or personal capacity to become valued contributors to the equine industry as a whole.
Students participate in a series of lectures designed to impart theoretical knowledge of classical riding and training. Following on from the theoretical training, students are also taught these movements and methods on our schoolmasters and young stallions.
We focus on correct, classical riding position and students are also given seat-improvement lunge lessons on our stallions. Our goal as a training centre is to develop riders that are effective, knowledgeable and compassionate in both their seat and their hands.
At the conclusion of their course, students qualify only if they are able to ride a ridden exam (at around Medium level) and achieve a minimum of 65%. It is our job to best prepare the student for this exam and all participants leave the program far better, more accomplished riders than they arrived.
We strictly adhere to the international expectations and safety guidelines of effective lungeing practices. Students are trained to lunge to the highest standard and are able to lunge horses of a variety of different types and levels by the end of their course.
A valued skill in the equine industry, the ability to bandage safely and correctly distinguishes certain applicants from others when applying for a job. At the South African Lipizzaners we bandage frequently and students will become familiar and adept with this practice.
We utilise a variety of tack and equipment not accessible at all establishments. Our students are exposed to side-saddle, the use of double bridles and carriage equipment as part of their training experience.
We utilise our stud situated 10 minutes away from our performance centre to give students hands-on experience working with young stock and mares. Students also gain a wealth of knowledge during our breeding seasons allowing for a well-rounded education.
Current CV highlighting your experience with horses
Motivation letter explaining your interest and goals
Confirmation you meet age and education requirements
Ability to commit to the full 10-month program
Financial arrangements for the R40,000 course fee
This intensive program is designed for individuals who are serious about pursuing a career in the equine industry or who wish to deepen their knowledge and skills in classical horsemanship. The experience you’ll gain working with Lipizzaner horses and learning from our experienced team is truly unique and invaluable.
