THE BLONDEAU METHOD: THE SAME PHILOSOPHY, FROM BREAKING-IN TO COMPETITION
Introduction: the Blondeau Method is based on the dual professional training of horse and rider. Through a coherent approach, it seeks to develop the abilities of both, establishing a relationship of trust through work.
This training programme is designed for experienced riders who wish to learn how to educate young horses, from breaking-in through to their first competitions in show jumping and/or eventing.
The principle is to train the rider and the young horse simultaneously: the progress of one is reflected in the development of the other, while performance in competition demonstrates the quality of all the preparatory work.
This is a vocational training programme leading to a qualification but not to a state-recognised diploma. It offers a specialised pathway for riders whose level exceeds the entry requirements for the French Certificat de Spécialisation (CS) in the Education and Training of Young Equines.
Objective: By the end of the programme, riders will be able to educate and train a young horse from breaking-in through to its first rounds in young horse competitions, including the French Cycle Classique and Cycle Libre circuits in show jumping and/or eventing, in accordance with the Blondeau Method.
The programme is founded on a fundamental principle: the horse understands, remembers and anticipates. The aim is to harness this intelligence in the learning process by establishing the conditions for cooperative work, enabling the young horse to understand what is being asked and to engage willingly with its rider.
Target audience: Riders
Training programme:
- Module 1: Apply essential knowledge of the horse to its education, training and development (70 hours)
- Module 2: Carry out the breaking-in and groundwork of a young horse (416 hours)
- Module 3: Train and develop the young horse both under saddle and on the ground (342 hours)
- Module 4: Develop the young horse's abilities and prepare it for its first competitions (204 hours)
- Module 5: Participate in the daily management of a professional stable (180 hours)
- Module 6: Communicate effectively in a professional environment (40 hours)
- Module 7: Manage a professional project focused on the training, monitoring and development of a young horse (80 hours)
Required riding level: Galop 7 (French national riding qualification)
Entry requirements: Applicants must be at least 18 years old when starting the programme.
Programme coordinator: Élise Lefol
Instructors:
Nicolas Maynard: Former rider at the Cadre Noir de Saumur and qualified riding instructor. Competitor at Pro 2 level in eventing and Pro 1 level in show jumping. Holder of an INSEP qualification, the Specific Competence Certificate in High-Performance Project Management, and the CCPEE qualification.
Élise Lefol: BPJEPS-qualified riding instructor and holder of the BFEEE2 qualification. Senior riding instructor responsible for monitoring training programmes at the École Blondeau. Experienced exercise rider in both Thoroughbred and harness racing.
Training dates: September to June or October to July.
Total training hours: 1,332 hours
Duration: 10 months
Group size: 4 riders per intake
Upon completion of the programme:
This is a vocational training programme leading to a qualification but not to a state-recognised diploma.
Participants receive a certificate of completion specifying the objectives, nature and duration of the training, together with the results of their learning assessments.
Satisfaction and success rates:
This is a newly introduced programme. The first performance indicators will be available following completion of the first intake.
Accessibility for people with disabilities:
Support and individual arrangements may be considered for participants with disabilities, depending on their circumstances.
Our training centre is classified as an ERP (establishment open to the public) under French regulations.
Disability support coordinator: Sophie Barreau. Please contact us using the enquiry form.
Location: Saumur, France
Tuition fees: €4,500 per year
Certification:
The École Blondeau is a training organisation certified under the French QUALIOPI and QUALICERT quality certification schemes.
QUALICERT service certification has been awarded under the following category: "Certified Commitments for the Training of Agricultural Professionals – RE/VIV/04".
QUALIOPI quality certification has been awarded for the provision of training activities.
Qualification awarded:
École Blondeau Level 4 Certificate – BEB4 (Brevet École Blondeau)
brevet4
Potential funding: OPCA, VIVEA and FAFSEA schemes, subject to eligibility.
Registration: +33 (0)2 41 50 70 50 Contact us using this form
Diploma for this course:
Ecole Blondeau Brevet Level 4 - BEB4
Assistance possible : OPCA, VIVEA et FAFSEA
To apply : 02 41 50 70 50 - Contact us with this form
