Lessons at BCE
At Blue Creek Equestrian, lessons are built around safety, confidence, and connection.
Our programs are designed for riders and horse lovers who want thoughtful instruction, correct basics, and a partnership-first approach. Whether you are learning to ride, returning after time away, exploring groundwork, or introducing a child to horses through our miniature horse program, BCE offers calm, intentional instruction in a supportive barn environment.
Horse + Rider Training
In addition to BCE lesson programs, we partner with experienced trainers for horse training and horse-and-rider work. These sessions are for clients with their own horses and are not booked with BCE lesson horses.
Training sessions with Kari and Gillian can be booked directly with each trainer. These sessions may include groundwork, behavior support, confidence building, horse development, and horse-and-rider partnership depending on the trainer’s area of focus and availability.
To begin, please select and purchase the lesson or program you’re interested in, then complete the lesson form and place a card on file. Once we receive your information, we’ll review your request and contact you directly to schedule a time that fits our current availability.
BCE Lessons
Our 1-on-1 lessons take place in our indoor arena, giving riders a calm, focused environment for individualized instruction. Each lesson is shaped around the rider’s experience, goals, comfort level, and learning style. We welcome beginner riders, returning riders, and those looking to strengthen their foundation through thoughtful, relationship-based horsemanship.
Begin on the Ground is a ground-based horse program for adults living with trauma, stress, or PTSD. Through guided work with horses, participants practice nervous system regulation, boundaries, trust, and connection—without riding, pressure, or performance.
Blue Creek Equestrian offers a 40-minute mini horse grooming and training experience designed for children who want a hands-on introduction to horses in a calm, supportive environment.
During these lessons, participants will spend time with one of our miniature horses while learning basic grooming, safe handling, and simple groundwork skills. The focus is on building confidence, practicing kindness and clear communication, and learning how horses respond to body language, boundaries, and gentle leadership.
This lesson does not include riding. Instead, children will learn how to care for and connect with a mini horse from the ground—brushing, leading, observing, and practicing age-appropriate training exercises with the guidance of an instructor.
Our Trainers + Instructor
Kari Ketchledge — Horsemanship & Centered Riding
Kari teaches effective, empathetic horsemanship with a centered riding focus rooted in classical dressage principles applied to all disciplines. Lessons emphasize clarity, softness, and true communication—helping horse and rider build trust, balance, and confidence.
Please note: Kari does not provide lesson horses. Riders should plan to lesson on their own horse or a leased horse they provide.
Alexa Anderson — Youth & Beginner Foundations
Alexa teaches correct, foundational horsemanship for youth and beginner riders, with a centered riding emphasis that supports any discipline. Lessons focus on safety, feel, and fundamentals—building capable riders through kind, consistent instruction and thoughtful progression.
Gillian Conley — Training & Exercise Rides
Gillian is available for exercising and training horses (rather than rider lessons). Ideal for owners who want foundation work, or help keeping a horse progressing consistently.