The Academy will have close ties to Chedington Equestrian, a world-renowned training ground for senior competitive riders, including Olympic competitors. This partnership provides pupils with access to world-class expertise and resources, further solidifying Leweston School's commitment to excellence in both academics and extracurricular activities.
The Academy features:
- 20 spacious stables designed to provide the best care and comfort for horses.
- A flood-lit arena, offering year-round training and competition opportunities.
- A dedicated classroom, enhancing equestrian education through theory and practical integration.
The Riding Academy will offer tailored livery and riding packages exclusively for pupils, alongside an exciting range of camps, lessons, and arena hire available to the wider community. The school has introduced BTEC Equine Studies in Sixth Form with six students forming the first cohort, and all of Year 7 and 8 have the opportunity to use the Academy as part of the curriculum.
The Centre was formally opened by Chris Burton, Australian equestrian and Olympic Silver medallist in individual eventing at Paris 2024. It included tours of the facility, and an opportunity to meet the team behind this exceptional initiative.
Headmaster, John Paget-Tomlinson commented:
"The Leweston Chedington Riding Academy represents a significant step forward for Leweston School. It is not just an equestrian facility; it is a hub for passion, dedication, and development. We are thrilled to provide this opportunity to our students and look forward to welcoming the wider community to enjoy all that the Academy has to offer."
The School would like to express its deepest thanks to Dr and Mrs Guy, owners of Chedington Equestrian, for their support both in developing and building the project and for the ongoing opportunities that this link will provide.