Ecole blondeau, Saumur, école d'équitation, élevage de chevaux, entraîneur de chevaux

			At long last there is a school in Europe which teaches using both ethological and classical equitation. The Ecole Blondeau uses the method designed by Nicolas Blondeau to teach riders to understand their horses and horses to accept their riders. It welcomes horses for breaking-in, regaining confidence or getting them fit. It also welcomes riders so that they can learn the Blondeau Method: starting and backing, educating racehorses (both gallopers and trotters), equestrian sports and working from the ground.


	During the ten-day starting and backing course, Nicolas Blondeau uses his voice, his body and sensitivity, with a hazel wand, a lungeing rein, snaffle bridle and saddle. Each step is carefully measured and monitored to ensure that the horse assimilates and does each exercise correctly, from putting on the headcollar to accomplishing the three paces with a rider.


	The Blondeau Method works on the principles of classical riding, and can be learnt by everyone. The candidates are taken after two days of assessment during which they learn about the method of working and are tested in different situations. This allows coherent teaching programmes to be set out. Each individual’s plans are taken into account, whether professional or sporting.