As a parent considering equestrian programs for your child, selecting the right fit can feel overwhelming. At Compton Jr. Equestrians (CJE), we understand that every young person comes with unique interests, goals, and experience levels. Our comprehensive program structure is designed to meet youth where they are while providing pathways for growth, personal development, and potential career exploration in the equestrian world.
Understanding CJE’s Program Philosophy
Before diving into specific programs, it’s important to understand CJE’s core mission. We focus on empowering disadvantaged urban youth through equestrian experiences that promote personal growth, build confidence, and create opportunities for career development in the multi-billion-dollar equine industry. Safety is our paramount concern, with programs designed to gradually build student-horse interactions from zero experience to full riding independence.
The Foundation: Basic Equine Program (BEP)
For most families, the Basic Equine Program serves as the perfect starting point. This core program acts as the foundation for all CJE programming and offers three distinct formats to accommodate different schedules and commitment levels.
Field Trip Program is ideal for families wanting to test the waters. This one-day introduction allows your child to experience CJE programming without a long-term commitment. It’s perfect for students who are curious about horses but unsure about their level of interest, or for families coordinating with schools, churches, or other organizations.
Afterschool Program represents our main development focus and operates three days per week during the school year. This program is perfect for working parents who need reliable afterschool care while providing their children with structured, goal-oriented activities. Students progress through clear developmental milestones with appropriate support systems in place. The program emphasizes safety-driven progression, allowing students to build confidence and skills at their own pace.
Summer Camp Program offers intensive immersion for families seeking a more concentrated experience during school breaks. Operating five hours per day, three days per week, this program is ideal for students who have already shown interest through other programs or for families wanting to maximize their child’s equestrian experience during summer months.
Specialized Pathways: English and Western Riding Programs
For students who demonstrate particular aptitude or interest after participating in BEP, CJE offers specialized programs focusing on career development opportunities.
The English Riding Program (ERP) coordinates with BEP to identify students with capability and interest in pursuing opportunities in showjumping, equitation, and other English riding specialties. This program is currently undergoing revision to better align with CJE’s mission of supporting youth career development rather than purely competitive focus.
Similarly, the Western Riding Program (WRP) works to identify students interested in reining, rodeo, and other Western riding specialties. Like the ERP, this program has shifted focus from competitive sports to career exploration and development within the Western riding industry.
Both specialized programs require coordination with BEP participation, making them appropriate for students who have already demonstrated commitment and aptitude through the foundational program.
Comprehensive Support: Clinical Services Program (CSP)
What sets CJE apart is our Clinical Services Program, which integrates across all programming to ensure we deliver on our youth self-development mission. This isn’t a separate program parents choose, but rather a comprehensive support system that enhances every student’s experience.
CSP provides core youth personal growth and wellness programming, using a case management approach to track and document student progress. The program leverages the powerful experience of learning to develop relationships with horses – some of the world’s largest and most powerful animals – to impact youth personal development and emotional health in scientifically proven ways.
Making the Right Choice for Your Family
When choosing a program, consider your child’s experience level, time availability, and long-term interests. Start with BEP to establish a foundation, regardless of which format works best for your schedule. Students with no horse experience should always begin here, as safety protocols ensure proper skill development before advancing.
Consider your family’s commitment level. Field trips offer low-commitment exploration, while afterschool and summer programs require more dedication but provide deeper development opportunities. For families seeking comprehensive youth development beyond just riding skills, our integrated approach ensures personal growth alongside equestrian education.
Safety and Prerequisites
CJE maintains that safety is the most critical element of programming. Our comprehensive safety protocols include mandatory helmet use, close supervision by experienced staff, and gradual skill building. Most programs, particularly BEP, are designed to be accessible regardless of experience level, though specialized programs may require assessment of student capability and interest.
Getting Started
The enrollment process is straightforward: explore program options, check any prerequisites, and submit an application. Our team reviews applications and contacts families to discuss the best fit for their student’s needs and goals.
Choosing the right program at CJE means finding the balance between your child’s interests, your family’s schedule, and long-term development goals. With our comprehensive approach combining equestrian education, personal development, and career exploration, we’re committed to helping every student find their path to empowerment through horses.