Meet the Assistant Instructors (AIs)… yes, they’re real humans, not robots!

You may have seen an Assistant Instructor zooming around the barn, helping riders, volunteers, setting up the arena, and solving 12 problems at once, and thought: “Surely no actual human can do all that.” But fear not, they are, in fact, real people (we checked)! This week, we’re spotlighting the Assistant Instructor (AI) role so everyone understands just how central they are to keeping lessons smooth, safe, and fun. 

What AIs Do Before Class: 

• Review the barn board for horse, volunteer assignments and any absences

• Put out tack for all classes

• Bring reins, bridles, and adaptive equipment into the arena

• Help set up the arena and games as instructed

• Assist horse handlers with grooming and tacking, or jump in themselves if someone is late or absent

• Adjust stirrups and communicate needs to horse handlers

During Class: 

• Supervise the ring while riders are mounting and throughout the lesson

• Keep traffic flowing safely with 1–2 horse lengths between horses

• Support sidewalkers and horse handlers as needed

• Step in for any volunteer role if required

• In an emergency, the instructor takes the emergency while the AI takes the class

• Oversee dismounting and keep eyes on riders not directly supervised by the instructor. 

Between Classes: 

• Assist with tack changes

• Pick manure in the arena

• Help adjust the arena setup as needed

At the End of the Shift: 

• Put away all tack and equipment in their correct places

• Ensure tack assignment boards are up to date

• Check that stalls and paddocks are secure and equipment is properly stored

AIs are the safety anchors of each lesson and the go-to support for volunteers, riders, and instructors. Next time you’re at the barn, take a moment to appreciate these multitasking superhumans!