For Young And Beginner Riders
Confidence, Built From The Ground Up.
Riding Buddy helps a young rider and their pony learn together — calmly, clearly and one stage at a time.
Free to start. As your rider progresses, the paid String Manager companion unlocks the next level.
Today With Your Pony
Today's Look
A calm two-minute listen to start.
Audio guide
How does your pony look today?
Illustrative app screens.
How It Works
Four Stages. One Step At A Time.
Each stage gives the rider something clear to learn before the next one begins. Nothing is rushed, and the pony helps set the pace.
- 01
Meet & Settle
Read your pony's mood and help them feel calm on the ground.
- 02
Groundwork
Practise leading, stopping, turning and standing together.
- 03
The Readiness Check
Complete a simple check together, with an adult present.
- 04
First Rides
Begin calm, walk-first riding once you are both ready.
Age bands, session counts and exact stage checks are provided inside the free programme.
Inside The App
A Clear Next Step, Every Time.
Young riders can see where they are, what comes next and what they have completed. The screen stays simple so the learning can stay with the pony.
Your Four Stages
Stage 2 of 4 · Groundwork
01Meet & Settle
Say hello and help your pony feel calm.
02Groundwork
Lead, stop, turn and stand together.
03The Readiness Check
A simple check, with a grown-up.
04First Rides
Calm, walk-first riding when you're both ready.
A grown-up stays with you for every stage.
For Parents
You Know What Your Child Is Learning.
An adult stays present for every session until the rider clears the readiness check. The pony's comfort and the child's safety set the pace.
The programme gives families a clear path through groundwork and into first rides, with each step visible along the way.
Nice Work Today
You and your pony finished today's steps.
Today's badges
Ready To Ride
You got started
Good Listening
You stayed calm
Calm Hands
You practised softly
Learning Together
Calm First. Then Ready.
Riding Buddy starts where every beginner can take part: on the ground, noticing the pony, practising the basics and building confidence before the first ride.
Start Riding Buddy
Give A Young Rider The Right Start.
Riding Buddy is free to begin. Create an account and start with the first ground-based stage.