A refreshed national learning framework strengthens rider development while building on the trusted foundation of Canada’s LearnTo Ride and Drive programs.
July 20, 2026 - Ottawa, ON — Equestrian Canada (EC) is proud to introduce the modernized LearnTo program, a comprehensive update to the national athlete development framework that has guided generations of Canadian equestrians. Rather than replacing the long-standing Learn to Ride and Drive programs, LearnTo represents their evolution – preserving the strengths of the existing curriculum while modernizing its structure, learning outcomes and pathways to better reflect today's equestrian community.
At its core, LearnTo is now the umbrella learning framework for equestrian sport in Canada. It brings together interconnected learning pathways that support participants throughout their equestrian journey, from horse care and handling through riding, competition and laying the groundwork for future discipline-specific pathways. This unified framework provides a clearer, more consistent experience for athletes, coaches, facilities and families while remaining flexible enough to continue growing and adapting as new disciplines and learning streams are introduced.
Ten-time Canadian Olympian and current Chef d’Équipe of the Canadian Show Jumping Team, Ian Millar, has underscored the importance of the fundamentals throughout his career.
"The future of our sport depends on giving riders the right foundation from the very beginning. Equestrian Canada's LearnTo program provides a clear, consistent pathway that helps participants build the skills, confidence, and horsemanship they need to enjoy horses safely and successfully. Whether your goal is to ride for recreation or compete at the highest level, every great journey starts with learning the basics. I encourage riders, coaches, and facilities across Canada to embrace the LearnTo program and help strengthen the future of equestrian sport for generations to come." - Ian Millar
Many young participants begin with Rookie Riders, which introduces the Active Start and FUNdamentals stages through fun, age-appropriate experiences. LearnTo builds on that foundation progressively, as part of EC’s Long Term Equestrian Development model. The new Competitor stream supports those wishing to pursue competitive goals in their discipline of choice.
The refreshed framework introduces LearnToCare as a dedicated horse care, handling and welfare pathway; an expanded Western curriculum; a new Cross-Country pathway; a new Competitor stream; and a consistent eight-level structure across disciplines. These enhancements support lifelong learning while recognizing achievement at every stage.
Tara Lambie, owner/operator of Yankee Valley Sporthorses (Olds, AB) is a Master Coach Developer, NCCP Competition Coach and Certified LearnTo Evaluator. She teaches both the Rookie Riders and LearnTo programs.
“LearnTo is a foundational grassroots program designed to welcome participants of all levels, abilities, and backgrounds,” commented Tara. “Whether someone is taking their first steps in the equestrian world or working toward competitive goals, the program offers a clear and progressive pathway for development. Parents, athletes, and future coaches all benefit from a shared system of education that builds knowledge, confidence, and lifelong involvement in the sport.” - Tara Lambie
Development of LearnTo has been a collaborative effort between Equestrian Canada, a broad range of equestrian experts, and the Provincial and Territorial Sport Organizations (PTSOs), who deliver the curriculum, evaluations and programming across the country. Together, EC and its provincial and territorial partners continue to provide nationally aligned learning opportunities while ensuring delivery reflects local communities.
“The LearnTo program gives new coaches a clear, structured path to build their students’ confidence and competence from day one,” remarked Danielle Yaghdjian, owner/operator of Ontario’s Pickering Horse Centre, and fellow Master Coach Developer, NCCP Competition Coach, EC Licenced coach and Certified LearnTo evaluator. “No matter what level these students are starting from or what their goals are, it’s exactly the foundation our sport needs.”
LearnTo continues to emphasize safe, ethical horsemanship, participant-centered learning and horse welfare while providing flexible pathways for recreational participants and competitive athletes alike.
LearnTo resources and information are now available through Equestrian Canada and participating Provincial and Territorial Sport Organizations.
Visit https://equestrian.ca/community/get-started/ for LearnTo, Rookie Riders, our Long Term Equestrian Development Model (LTED) and to find an EC Licensed Coach.
Source: Equestrian Canada