Over the course of the weekend, riders and horses are introduced to cattle in a calm, controlled and progressive environment. We begin by familiarising the horses with the herd from a comfortable distance, allowing them time to assess, breathe and understand before we ask them to engage more actively. From there, we start to explore how to influence the movement of the cattle using body language, position, pace and timing.

 

Once horse and rider feel comfortable, we introduce the penning exercises — the iconic “fourth phase” of Working Equitation that so few riders ever get the chance to try. Penning is where teamwork becomes essential, and it’s often where riders realise just how accurate their aids are (or aren’t!) in real time. It’s challenging in the best way, and hugely educational for both the horse and the rider.

 

Across the weekend there’s also an opportunity to explore the speed phase elements, allowing those who wish to build rhythm, responsiveness and decision-making under light pressure. Everything is done at your own pace; some riders choose to keep things slow and methodical, while others enjoy testing their agility and timing a little more boldly. Both are welcome — the aim is progress, not perfection.

 

Throughout the camp, obstacles typically used in Working Equitation are incorporated to help develop accuracy, suppleness and focus, adding another layer of learning and fun to the experience. The combination of cattle work and obstacles gives riders a clearer sense of their horse’s responsiveness, and offers horses an opportunity to problem-solve in a way that builds confidence rather than tension.

 

And because cattle camp is, at its heart, an adventure, there’s always space for laughter, curiosity and the sheer novelty of doing something most riders never get the chance to try. Even the horses enjoy it!