At the riding school
The riding school foundation
Riding, theory and practical horsemanship develop together. Badge Shows let riders demonstrate their skills and prepare for the next stage.
How the school program works
THE UDJC SYSTEM
From the first riding lesson through advanced competition. UDJC connects what happens at home with what is rewarded in the arena.
A connected education
Four stages, from lessons to competition.
Learn
Start with the basics.
Learn balance, confidence, and horse care at a Certified Riding School. Riding lessons and horsemanship go together.
Develop
Work on your riding.
Practice your position, rhythm, and feel through lessons and clinics that connect flatwork, jumping, and horsemanship.
Compete
Put your skills to the test.
Ride at Badge, Foundation, and Circuit Shows, then use the feedback to plan your next lessons.
Progress
Move up when you’re ready.
Earn Badges and Performance Levels by showing what you can do. These levels guide your next classes and your progress toward Finals and Championships.
Good riding is good riding.
Ready for what comes next
Move up when you’re ready.
Riders move up when they are ready, not when time has passed. A Badge, judged to the same standard everywhere, marks each step.
- Step 1
Unicorn
Ages 3–5. Confidence and joy around ponies.
- Step 2
Level B
The older beginner rider. A strong lunge-line foundation.
- Step 3
Level E
The developing rider. Independence, rhythm and first jumps.
- Step 4
Level A
The advanced riding school student, ready for competition.
A Badge, judged to one standard, is passed to move up each step.
In the show ring
The competition pathway
Performance Levels connect a rider’s qualifications and results with appropriate classes, all the way to Finals and Championships.
Championships & FinalsWhy UDJC is different
Better riding, at every stage.
Competition is part of education. These principles connect the first lesson, daily training and the show ring.
Education first
Shows put the skills you learn at home into practice.
Learn moreAll-around riders
Dressage, Hunters, and Jumpers share the same riding basics. Try each discipline before choosing a specialty.
Learn moreStructured progression
Follow clear levels from your first lesson through advanced competition.
Learn moreHorse development
Give your horse time to develop correctly, rather than chasing short-term results.
Learn moreFeedback
Use your scores and judges’ comments to decide what to practice next.
Learn moreAccessibility
Take part in organized competition with affordable show fees.
Learn moreYOUR PLACE IN THE PATHWAY
Start where
you are.
Different starting points.
One shared belief in better riding.
Riders & parents
Find a school, learn how Badges work, and prepare for your first show.