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Courses & Programs
The MRILC is unique from other training facilities because the primary focus of our curriculum is on equine psychology and behavior rather than riding skills. Students develop a solid understanding of what motivates and influences equine behavior in order to increase their effectiveness in the application of their choice: virtually any discipline of riding, veterinary assisting, shoeing, racehorse training and so forth.
The Monty Roberts International Learning Center is located at Flag Is Up Farms in the Santa Ynez Valley, California at the heart of the Central Coast’s wine country just 40 miles north of Santa Barbara.
COURSES: MONTY'S SPECIAL TRAINING: 5 DAYS
$1,000.00 USD
Come witness what created a revolution in horsemanship and open your mind to a whole new perspective on your horse’s methods of communication and behavior.
Experience what hundreds of students have discovered at Monty Roberts International Learning Center; a wonderful learning environment where you will enjoy the staff, meet new friends and return home with a better understanding of your equine companion. Every horse enthusiast can find lessons below to fit their interests.
A unique opportunity to be at Flag Is Up Farms with Monty, watching, asking questions and learning as Monty and a team of his Certified Instructors work with a range of young and remedial horses. By observing this renowned and gifted horseman, you gain first-hand knowledge during demonstrations, lectures and discussions. This class is for the novice, as well as the advanced student, to observe a master at work practicing his discoveries that have changed the horse world internationally.
Monty shares how to communicate with horses in their natural language in various situations during this intensive five-day class. This exclusive format helps you better understand problem solving using Monty’s violence-free training methods. Depending on the horses brought in to train that week, these issues may be a part of the course:
• leadership issues
• ground manners
• teaching to tie
• crossing water (and/or obstacles)
• loading
• head-shyness
• mounting
• bucking
• standing for the farrier
• kicking and biting
• starting a young horse
Spend time with like-minded people absorbing what non-violent communication can be. Enjoy the included lunch daily and share lively discussions with Monty and students from around the world as each day is full with learning.
The next step:
Once you have placed the order for your space in the upcoming course, our Monty Roberts Certified Instructors will contact you to confirm receiving the order and also answer any questions you may have regarding participation. We will also provide additional enrollment paperwork which will need to be filled out and submitted prior to attending.
While accommodations are not provided onsite, we do have connections with many local area hotels in Solvang, and Buellton. Please review our Transportation and Accommodation worksheet found here.
If you have additional questions, please contact:
COURSES: HORSEMANSHIP 101: 1 DAY
$125.00 USD
For those new to horses, returning after a long break or trying to overcome fear, these two days will help you become safe and comfortable around horses. Classroom discussion will provide an introduction to how horses think and behave and practical sessions will teach you how to approach, halter, lead, groom and move safely around a horse. You will learn the basic concept behind the Dually™ halter and after watching Join-Up® demonstrations, will experience a guided round pen session to feel the power of inter-species communication.
Key Learning Points:
- Non-violent approach to working with a horse
- The Language of Equus
- Building a trust-based partnership
- Approaching, touching and handling a horse
- How horses learn, think and see
- Join-Up in the round pen
- Grooming a horse
- How to fit and use the Dually™ Training Halter
- Spatial awareness, breathing and intention
A ROSETTE TOKEN OF ACCOMPLISHMENT* WILL BE PROVIDED UPON COMPLETING THE COURSE
Once you have placed the order for your space in the upcoming course, our Monty Roberts Certified Instructors will contact you to confirm receiving the order and also answer any questions you may have regarding participation. We will also provide additional enrollment paperwork which will need to be filled out and submitted prior to attending.
While accommodations are not provided onsite, we do have connections with many local area hotels in Solvang, and Buellton. Please review our Transportation and Accommodation worksheet found here.
If you have additional questions, please contact:
COURSES: INTRODUCTORY COURSE OF HORSEMANSHIP: 10 DAYS
$2,000.00 USD
The Introductory Course of Horsemanship is the first step to gain an in-depth understanding of Monty’s concepts. Students from various equine backgrounds are welcome to take part, as there are no prerequisites. To those of you with little or no horse knowledge, we recommend prior participation in the H101 Clinic.
The Introductory Course is designed to provide you with a well-rounded knowledge in the basics of horse care, performance, breeding, feeding and nutrition, with a strong emphasis on horse psychology. As the foundation of Monty’s work and a prerequisite for the Advanced Course, you will learn the method of Join-Up® as it relates to various environments. You will have the opportunity to build your skills in Dually™ halter work, long-lining, herding exercises and loading.
Initially you will spend two weeks at the MRILC.
Classroom discussion will focus on:
- Horse Evolution
- Behavior
- Sensory Systems
- Language
- Learning Theory
- and Monty's Methods
Through demonstrations and practical sessions you will learn about:
- Join-Up
- Dually Halter Work
- Long-Lining
- Trailer Loading
Following this you will return home to continue practicing what you have learned. By sending us videos you can continue to receive our feedback on your work. It is also during this period that you study theory on horse performance, breeding, feeding and nutrition. When we determine that you are ready, you will return for practical and written exams, at the successful completion of which you will graduate from the Introductory Course.
Once you have placed the order for your space in the upcoming course, our Monty Roberts Certified Instructors will contact you to confirm receiving the order and also answer any questions you may have regarding participation. We will also provide additional enrollment paperwork which will need to be filled out and submitted prior to attending.
While accommodations are not provided onsite, we do have connections with many local area hotels in Solvang, and Buellton. Please review our Transportation and Accommodation worksheet found here.
If you have additional questions, please contact:
COURSES: INTRODUCTORY COURSE FIRST STEPS TO MONTY’S METHODS: MODULE 1 (3 DAYS)
$425.00 USD
We are excited to announce: our Introductory Course of Horsemanship is now available in modular format! The 12-day course is available in four 3-day sessions which can be taken in any order at your convenience*
The Introductory Course of Horsemanship is the first step to gaining an in-depth understanding of Monty Roberts' concepts. The modular format is suitable for students of all levels of equine experience, as Certified Instructors pair you with horses and tasks suited to your abilities.
FIRST STEPS TO MONTY’S METHODS: MODULE 01
This module introduces you to Equus – the horses’ natural communication system, and how using Equus can build a willing, non-violent partnership with your horse. It also focusses on effective use of the Dually® Halter – how timing and consistency are key to improving your ground- and ridden- work.
Through demonstrations, practical sessions, and classroom discussions you will gain insight into the psychology and physiology of the horse, and hands-on experience to improve the relationship with your horse(s) at home.
Topics include::
- Dually® Halter work
- Balance lines and driving a horse with your body
- Equus – the horses’ natural communication system
- Fitting a bridle on a difficult horse
- Fly spraying a sensitive horse
- Washing your horse – the stress-free way
- Protecting your horse – wraps, boots etc.
- A Join-Up® demo
- And more …
This module can be taken as a stand-alone tool to improve your communication and relationship with your horse, or as a step towards completing the Introductory Course of Horsemanship. A Rosette Token of Accomplishment* will be provided upon completing the course.
Following this you will return home to continue practicing what you have learned. By sending us videos you can continue to receive our feedback on your work. On completion of all four modules, you will receive a full study manual and further guidance on preparing for the written and practical exams, at successful completion of which, you will graduate from the Introductory Course and be eligible to take the Advanced Course.
Once you have placed the order for your space in the upcoming course, our administrator will contact you to confirm receiving the order and also answer any questions you may have regarding participation. We will also provide additional enrollment paperwork which will need to be filled out and submitted prior to attending.
While accommodations are not provided onsite, we do have connections with many local area hotels in Solvang, and Buellton. Please review our Transportation and Accommodation worksheet found here.
* All 4 modules must be completed at a minimum of 1 each calendar year, over 3 years to qualify for acceptance to take the Introductory Exam.
If you have additional questions, please contact:
COURSES: INTRODUCTORY COURSE JOIN-UP: MODULE 2 (3 DAYS)
$625.00 USD
We are excited to announce: our Introductory Course of Horsemanship is now available in modular format! The 12-day course is available in four 3-day sessions which can be taken in any order at your convenience*
The Introductory Course of Horsemanship is the first step to gaining an in-depth understanding of Monty Roberts' concepts. The modular format is suitable for students of all levels of equine experience, as Certified Instructors pair you with horses and tasks suited to your abilities.
JOIN-UP - BUILDING A TRUST-BASED PARTNERSHIP THROUGH EQUUS: MODULE 02
In this module you will learn to "see the world as your horse sees it." Over 3 days you will learn the basics of Equus - the horses' body communication system, and how it can be used to build an effective, trust-based, non-violent partnership with your horse, through Join-Up® , Monty Roberts' world-renowned technique.
Through demonstrations, practical sessions, and classroom discussions you will gain insight into the psychology and physiology of the horse, and hands-on experience to improve the relationship with your horse(s) at home.
Topics include::
- How horses learn
- How the Dually® Halter can be used to improve the relationship with your horse
- The Join-Up® process
- Equus - the horses' natural communication system, and how we can use it to build a willing, trusting partnership with our horse
- And more...
This module can be taken as a stand-alone tool to improve your communication and relationship with your horse, or as a step towards completing the Introductory Course of Horsemanship. A Rosette Token of Accomplishment* will be provided upon completing the course.
Following this you will return home to continue practicing what you have learned. By sending us videos you can continue to receive our feedback on your work. On completion of all four modules, you will receive a full study manual and further guidance on preparing for the written and practical exams, at successful completion of which, you will graduate from the Introductory Course and be eligible to take the Advanced Course.
Once you have placed the order for your space in the upcoming course, our administrator will contact you to confirm receiving the order and also answer any questions you may have regarding participation. We will also provide additional enrollment paperwork which will need to be filled out and submitted prior to attending.
While accommodations are not provided onsite, we do have connections with many local area hotels in Solvang, and Buellton. Please review our Transportation and Accommodation worksheet found here.
* All 4 modules must be completed at a minimum of 1 each calendar year, over 3 years to qualify for acceptance to take the Introductory Exam.
If you have additional questions, please contact:
COURSES: INTRODUCTORY COURSE LONG LINING: MODULE 03 (3 DAYS)
$425.00 USD
We are excited to announce: our Introductory Course of Horsemanship is now available in modular format! The 12-day course is available in four 3-day sessions which can be taken in any order at your convenience*
The Introductory Course of Horsemanship is the first step to gaining an in-depth understanding of Monty Roberts' concepts. The modular format is suitable for students of all levels of equine experience, as Certified Instructors pair you with horses and tasks suited to your abilities.
LONG LINING - THE BENEFITS, FORM AND FUN: MODULE 03
Effective long-lining (double line lungeing or longeing) has numerous benefits for training and conditioning horses. In this module you will learn the benefits and advantages of long-lining over single-line lunging, and the skills required to long line effectively.
Through demonstrations, practical sessions, and classroom discussions you will gain insight into the psychology and physiology of the horse, and hands-on experience to improve the relationship with your horse(s) at home.
Topics include::
- Fitting and using the Dually® Halter correctly
- Balance lines and driving a horse with your body
- The benefits and practical uses of long-lining
- Preparing your horse for the first saddle and reins
- Tacking up to effectively long line
- Transitioning from the Dually® Halter to a bridle
- And more...
This module can be taken as a stand-alone tool to improve your communication and relationship with your horse, or as a step towards completing the Introductory Course of Horsemanship. A Rosette Token of Accomplishment* will be provided upon completing the course.
Following this you will return home to continue practicing what you have learned. By sending us videos you can continue to receive our feedback on your work. On completion of all four modules, you will receive a full study manual and further guidance on preparing for the written and practical exams, at successful completion of which, you will graduate from the Introductory Course ad be eligible to take the Advanced Course.
Once you have placed the order for your space in the upcoming course, our administrator will contact you to confirm receiving the order and also answer any questions you may have regarding participation. We will also provide additional enrollment paperwork which will need to be filled out and submitted prior to attending.
While accommodations are not provided onsite, we do have connections with many local area hotels in Solvang, and Buellton. Please review our Transportation and Accommodation worksheet found here.
* All 4 modules must be completed at a minimum of 1 each calendar year, over 3 years to qualify for acceptance to take the Introductory Exam.
If you have additional questions, please contact:
COURSES: INTRODUCTORY COURSE PREPARING FOR THE EXAMS: MODULE 04 (3 DAYS)
$625.00 USD
We are excited to announce: our Introductory Course of Horsemanship is now available in modular format! The 12-day course is available in four 3-day sessions which can be taken in any order at your convenience*. However, this module can only be taken after successful completion of the other 3 modules.
The Introductory Course of Horsemanship is the first step to gaining an in-depth understanding of Monty Roberts' concepts. The modular format is suitable for students of all levels of equine experience, as Certified Instructors pair you with horses and tasks suited to your abilities.
PREPARATION FOR THE INTRODUCTORY EXAMS: MODULE 04
This module is the final prerequisite for acceptance to take the Introductory Exams and cannot be taken as a stand-alone module, or before completion of the other 3 modules.
Through demonstrations, practical sessions, and classroom discussions you will recap all you have learned in modules 1 to 3, use the combined skills and knowledge learned to complete the 'full' Join-Up® (with Join-Up® , Follow-Up® , and Long Lining combined) and further explore Monty Roberts' techniques and how they can improve your horsemanship.
Topics include::
- Training your horse from the ground
- Desensitizing your horse to a variety of objects
- Trailer loading
- Full Join-Up®
- The Introductory Exams - what to expect and how to prepare
- And more...
Following this you will return home to continue practicing what you have learned. You will be required to send us videos of your work and will receive feedback / tips on areas that need improvement. You will also receive a full study manual (including horse psychology, horse performance & ailments, feeding & nutrition, breeding).
Once your instructor feels you are ready, you will be invited back to complete your written and practical Introductory Exam (at our next available date or other future dates), at successful completion of which, you will graduate from the Introductory Course and be eligible to take the Advanced Course.
Once you have placed the order for your space in the upcoming course, our administrator will contact you to confirm receiving the order and also answer any questions you may have regarding participation. We will also provide additional enrollment paperwork which will need to be filled out and submitted prior to attending.
While accommodations are not provided onsite, we do have connections with many local area hotels in Solvang, and Buellton. Please review our Transportation and Accommodation worksheet found here.
* All 4 modules must be completed at a minimum of 1 each calendar year, over 3 years to qualify for acceptance to take the Introductory Exam.
If you have additional questions, please contact:
COURSES: ADVANCED COURSE: 15 DAYS
$1,750.00 USD
The Advanced Course offers students the opportunity to extend their knowledge to training both un-started and untouched horses. This course is the next step on the pathway towards becoming a Certified Instructor and to attend the Advanced Course you must be a graduate of the Introductory Course.
You will be given the tools to expand your knowledge and overall experience in Monty’s concepts. The emphasis here is on practical work and the goal is to develop in you the mindset of a horse trainer.
- You will gentle wild or untouched horses
- Introducing wild or untouched horses to being handled, haltered and led
Another group of horses will go through the starting process:
- Initial trust building and desensitizing
- Introducing the tack and long-lining
Throughout you will be encouraged to read each horse and respond appropriately, adjusting your approach for each individual and dealing with problems as they arise.
Following the initial three-week class, you will return home to practice and continue to learn via video feedback. When ready, you may return for an intense two weeks of written and practical exams, at the successful completion of which you will graduate from the Advanced Course.
Once you have placed the order for your space in the upcoming course, our Monty Roberts Certified Instructors will contact you to confirm receiving the order and also answer any questions you may have regarding participation. We will also provide additional enrollment paperwork which will need to be filled out and submitted prior to attending.
While accommodations are not provided onsite, we do have connections with many local area hotels in Solvang, and Buellton. Please review our Transportation and Accommodation worksheet found here.
If you have additional questions, please contact:
COURSES: KIDS COURSE: 1 DAYS
$225.00 USD
1-day course from 10 am till 3:30 pm, please bring your own lunch for a picnic in the park.
- Children learn about the horse’s natural behavior
- How to move safely around the horse
- Get an awareness of their own body language and how that influences the horse
- Get a basic understanding of Monty’s concepts
- Fun games
- Children learn how to become the horses best friend
This course is developed for our future horse people. We believe that we should invest our time and energy in children to help them to learn and understand their best friends, the horses.
The more we understand and know about horses the safer it is to be around them and the more fun it is.
*Open to children between 8 and 15 years of age
*A parent needs to be present to oversee
Once you have placed the order for your space in the upcoming course, our Monty Roberts Certified Instructors will contact you to confirm receiving the order and also answer any questions you may have regarding participation. We will also provide additional enrollment paperwork which will need to be filled out and submitted prior to attending.
While accommodations are not provided onsite, we do have connections with many local area hotels in Solvang, and Buellton. Please review our Transportation and Accommodation worksheet found here.
If you have additional questions, please contact:
COURSES: GENTLING WILD HORSES: 10 DAYS
$1,500.00 USD
This course will give students the opportunity to use Monty's non-violent methods with ‘untouched’ horses. Students will observe and have 'hands-on' lessons according to their levels of skill. They will work in the unique facility, the 'IFA Untouched Gentling Pen,' which is designed for the humane treatment of wild horses, and the safety of horse and handler.
Be part of the experience of horse’s first touch by human hand and of the process, which allows them to be haltered, led, groomed and have their feet picked up. It is a fantastic way to learn more about the nature of the horse, as 'untouched' horses are a very good 'mirror' to learn more about oneself as well. This course is open for everyone, but 'hands-on' sessions will be limited to the skill set of each individual.
A ROSETTE TOKEN OF ACCOMPLISHMENT* WILL BE PROVIDED UPON COMPLETING THE COURSE
Once you have placed the order for your space in the upcoming course, our Monty Roberts Certified Instructors will contact you to confirm receiving the order and also answer any questions you may have regarding participation. We will also provide additional enrollment paperwork which will need to be filled out and submitted prior to attending.
While accommodations are not provided onsite, we do have connections with many local area hotels in Solvang, and Buellton. Please review our Transportation and Accommodation worksheet found here.
If you have additional questions, please contact:
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