HORSE RIDING LESSONS
The Classical Riding Academy offers private horse riding lessons rooted in the principles of classical dressage and supported by in-depth knowledge of equine behaviour and rider biomechanics.
Led by Natasha Olivant — an experienced, licensed riding instructor with over two decades of coaching — lessons are designed to help adult riders build confidence, develop feel, and deepen their connection with the horse. She is a specialist in combining Classical Dressage, enhanced with the application of the innate behaviour of horses and an in-depth knowledge of horse and human biomechanics.
Based in Charlton, West Sussex, Natasha provides mobile, private tuition across the South East, travelling to clients throughout Surrey, Hampshire, and beyond, and lessons on her own horses at her base near Petersfield.
CHOOSE YOUR RIDING LESSON
ABOUT OUR HORSE RIDING LESSONS
PRIVATE RIDING LESSONS DESIGNED AROUND YOU
Riding is more than a skill—it’s a quiet dialogue between horse and rider. Founded by Natasha Olivant, the Academy is grounded in classical dressage and enriched by an understanding of equine behaviour and biomechanics.
These private riding lessons are for those seeking clarity, connection, and confidence in the saddle. Natasha travels to you and your horse—delivering one-to-one tuition across West Sussex, Surrey, and Hampshire. From quiet yards in places like Petworth and Midhurst to relaxed field-based schooling near Petersfield or Farnham, lessons take place at your own location—offering a calm, familiar environment for focused, one-to-one learning.
Each session is tailored—there are no group bookings, and every lesson is built around your horse, your goals, and your experience level. Whether you're a returning rider, rebuilding confidence, or seeking softness and straightness in your work, the format allows space to ask questions, try things slowly, and learn with confidence.
HORSE RIDER
ASSESSMENT & TRAINING
All new clients begin with an initial assessment — either mounted or unmounted — which may involve use of a mechanical horse for greater precision. This first session allows Natasha to observe you and your horse, understand your aims, and shape a fluid, progress-tracked programme that supports steady, adaptable development over time.
Rooted in classical riding and supported by biomechanics, Natasha’s approach looks closely at how horse and human move, respond, and learn together. It’s about improving communication, not just technique — refining the seat, improving straightness, and encouraging softness through the rein in a way that supports long-term progress for both horse and rider.
Whether you are riding one of Natasha's beautiful Spanish Schoolmasters or working with your own horse, you will experience enlightening and positive experiences in your riding and horsemanship.
HORSE RIDING LESSONS NEAR YOU
As a fully insured BHS Accredited Coach and holder of a Chichester District Council Riding School Licence, Natasha is able to teach you on your horse if you have one, or on her trained Spanish Dressage Schoolmasters if not.
She covers much of West Sussex, Surrey, and Hampshire, including the South Downs, Chichester, Haslemere, Liss, Petersfield, and Guildford. Travel within a 10-mile radius of Charlton, West Sussex is included; a travel fee applies beyond that.
For those who benefit from visual feedback, optional video tracking is available using the Pivo 360 AutoTracker for iPhone users (with advance notice). This tool allows you to review your riding between sessions and see your development more clearly.
If you're ready to start or would like to talk through what’s possible, please get in touch.
Every lesson is an opportunity to move with greater ease, build confidence, and strengthen your partnership with your horse.
BHS ACCREDITED
RIDING INSTRUCTOR
NATASHA OLIVANT
A highly experienced equestrienne and passionate advocate for Classical Dressage, Natasha Olivant has been inspiring and guiding riders for over 20 years.
Based in the South of England, Natasha travels widely to deliver clinics and demonstrations, offering private and group coaching with a focus on rider performance and biomechanics. Her sessions are tailored to help riders refine their posture and movements, resulting in tangible improvements to their horse's way of going.
With a deep foundation in equine behaviour and psychology, Natasha addresses a wide range of challenges, fostering a harmonious and trusting partnership between horse and rider. The result is progressive, mindful riders and contented horses, working together to achieve their goals with understanding and respect.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
SERVICE AREA
Riding lessons across West Sussex, Surrey & Hampshire.
Natasha provides private riding lessons at your yard or location, travelling regularly to areas including Chichester, Petworth, Petersfield, Haslemere, Liss, Guildford and the wider South Downs.
Based in Charlton, West Sussex, she covers locations within a 10-mile radius free of charge. Travel fees apply beyond this boundary.
BOOKING POLICY
Our booking process is bespoke and arranged via email. Lessons are available Monday to Saturday and scheduled around your needs wherever possible.
All new clients begin with an introduction lesson, which includes an initial assessment to help shape a personalised programme for you and your horse.
Hats are not provided.
CANCELLATION POLICY
If you cancel within 48 hours or fail to turn up for any reason, your payment will not be refunded.
Lessons and other sessions cancelled with more than 48 hours' notice will be rescheduled to a date within six months of the original appointment.
Riding is an all-weather pursuit and goes ahead even in inclement conditions.
