The American Equestrian Institute (AEI) is a residential equestrian education program hosted at TerraNova Equestrian Center in Florida. Our intensive 17 day courses combine practical horsemanship, professional riding instruction, British Horse Society training, specialist masterclasses and personal development opportunities.

Our mission is to inspire and educate the next generation of equestrians while while providing a strong foundation for future careers within the equestrian industry.

Students are encouraged to bring their own horse to The American Equestrian Institute, allowing them to develop their riding skills and horsemanship knowledge with a familiar equine partner.

For students who do not have a suitable horse available we can assist with arranging a lease horse for the duration of the program, subject to availability and suitability. Additional lease fees may apply.

Important BHS Assessment Requirement: Under British Horse Society assessment rules, students are not permitted to ride their own horse during their riding assessment. Suitable alternative horses will be provided for assessment purposes, allowing students to demonstrate their skills on an unfamiliar horse.

Students at The American Equestrian Institute will have the opportunity to work towards internationally recognized British Horse Society (BHS) Stage 1 Care and Ride qualifications, subject to successful completion of the required assessments.

Students will also receive The American Equestrian Institute Certificate of Completion.

American Red Cross First Aid, CPR & AED certification upon successful completion.

Opportunities to develop additional practical horsemanship skills and progress towards BHS Stage 2 standards, depending on individual ability and progress.

Our program is designed to provide students with valuable qualifications, practical experience and a strong foundation for future equestrian careers.

The American Equestrian Institute offers a comprehensive 17 day residential equestrian education experience at TerraNova Equestrian Centre.

Course tuition includes, 16 nights of accommodation. Three nutritious daily meals. Professional riding instruction and practical horsemanship education. British Horse Society Stage 1 Care and Ride training and assessments. Eight specialist equestrian masterclasses. American Red Cross First Aid, CPR & AED training and certification. Supervised educational and recreational activities. The American Equestrian Institute Certificationof Completion.

Students bringing their own horses will have access to the equestrian facilities and stabling arrangements included in the program. Personal expenses and horse leasing are not included.

The safety, welfare and well being of our students are central to The American Equestrian Institute experience.

Students will be supported throughout their 17 day residential program by our dedicated Program Director and her residential assistants who will be on site and provide supervision outside scheduled educational activities.

TerraNova Equestrian Center provides a professionally managed environment with 24 hour on site security.

Our aim is to create a safe, welcoming and supportive atmosphere where students can develop independence, build friendships and enjoy an exceptional experience while giving parents peace of mind.

Students must be at least 16 years of age to participate in The American Equestrian Institute’s residential education program. However, exceptional 15 year old applicants may be considered on an individual basis, providing they demonstrate suitable riding experience, maturity and a genuine interest in developing their equestrian knowledge and professional skills.

The American Equestrian Institute is designed for young equestrians who already possess a solid foundation in riding and wish to advance their skills, horsemanship knowledge and professional qualifications.

All applicants must be competent and confident riding independently at walk, trot and canter without stirrups.

Students must also demonstrate safe and responsible horse handling skills and a willingness to participate fully in both practical and theoretical instruction.

Our experienced faculty will help students refine their riding techniques, develop their horsemanship abilities and prepare for the British Horse Society Stage 1 Care and Ride assessments.

The program is not intended for complete beginners.

Each day at The American Equestrian Institute is thoughtfully structured to combine practical equestrian education, professional riding instruction and personal development. Students participate in daily horse care and stable management, riding instruction, classroom learning and specialist masterclasses delivered by experienced equestrian professionals.

The program also provides opportunities for supervised recreation, social interaction and relaxation, allowing students to develop friendships and enjoy the unique residential experience at TerraNova Equestrian Center.

Our approach encourages responsibility, independence, teamwork and a strong work ethic while fostering a lifelong appreciation for horses and the equestrian industry.

The equestrian industry offers an extraordinary range of professional career opportunities, extending far beyond competitive riding.

Through internationally recognized equestrian education, practical experienced exposure to industry professionals, The American Equestrian Institute aims to introduce students to the many pathways available within this diverse and rewarding industry.

Potential career pathways include: Professional Rider and Competition Groom, Equestrian Instructor and Coach, Stable and Equestrian Facility Management, Equine Veterinary Medicine and Nursing, Equine Dentistry and Farrier, Thoroughbred Breeding and Bloodstock Management, Equine Nutrition and Rehabilitation, Equine Physiotherapy and Sports Therapy, Equine Business Management and Entrepreneurship , Equine Sales and Marketing, Event Management, Rider Wellness, Fitness and Nutrition.

Our specialist masterclasses provide students with opportunities to learn directly from experienced professionals, gain insight into their respective fields and explore potential future careers.

AEI is committed to inspiring students to recognize the breath of opportunities available to them and to develop a strong educational foundation for their future.

Prospective students and their families are invited to contact our admissions team to discuss enrollment in one of our 2027 residential programs at TerraNova Equestrian Center.

Our team will provide information about course availability, admission requirements, tuition and the enrollment process.

As places are limited, early inquiries are encouraged.

Please visit our Admissions & Enrollment page or contact us directly through the website to begin your AEI journey.