What exactly is the Smith Horsemanship Academy?

A full-year, hands-on program where students learn horse training, leadership, business, and life skills, all rooted in a biblical worldview. It’s more than just horsemanship, it’s a launchpad into adulthood, purpose, and professional growth.

How long is the program?

This is a full year program, starting in late January.

How many students are accepted per year?

We only take 10 students per intake to keep the experience personal, high quality, and hands-on.

Can I come without my own horse?

Yes. We provide horses for you to train throughout the year.

What qualifications do your instructors have?

Our instructors are selected based on their practical horsemanship ability, teaching skills, experience, and commitment to the Smith Horsemanship training philosophy. We encourage prospective students and their families to visit the Academy, observe our training, and decide for themselves whether our approach is the right fit.

Is your Academy suitable for someone who wants to become a horse trainer?

Yes. The Academy is designed for people who want to build practical skills in horse training, colt starting, riding, and horsemanship through daily, hands-on experience. Students leave with real-world experience working with a wide variety of horses and situations, preparing them for many different opportunities within the horse industry.

Where will the 2027 Academy take place?

At Smith Horsemanship’s private farm in the North West Province, approximately one hour from Rustenburg and 20 minutes outside Koster. The exact address is shared with accepted students and confirmed visitors.

Earn the Right to Call Yourself a Horseman

Build a level of skill most riders never reach.

What You’ll Experience

• Hands-on Horse Training:
Work with untrained and problem horses daily - from groundwork to riding - under expert mentorship.

• Business Mastery:
Film. Edit. Market. Learn how to build a brand and attract paying clients in the horse industry.

• Deep Personal Development:
You will be pushed in all aspects, from your physical condition to your way of thinking and overcoming challenges.

• Leadership:
Build grit, independence, and life skills through routine, responsibility, and practical leadership.

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Our Certified Students

Meet the horsemen and women who’ve earned official recognition through proven ability and professionalism.

Is This For You?

You’re between 17 and 26 years old.
You love horses and want to build your future around them.
You want a year filled with growth and finding your purpose through horses.
You’re hungry for knowledge, not parties.
You want to grow in all aspects - spiritually, personally, and professionally.

If that’s you, you’re exactly who we built this for!

THIS ISN’T WHERE YOU LEARN ABOUT HORSES.
IT’S WHERE YOU BECOME A HORSEMAN.

📆 January – November 2027
📍 Smith Horsemanship’s Private Training Farm, North West
Approximately one hour from Rustenburg

WHAT YOUR YEAR ACTUALLY LOOKS LIKE:

Daily hands-on horse training and care

Structured theory that supports what you do

Personal coaching and biblical mentorship

Outrides and field trips

Client interaction and real training scenarios

Business, leadership, and media sessions

PRACTICAL SKILLS YOU’LL DEVELOP:

Basic farriery and hoof care

Basic Equine first aid and injury management

Problem horse handling skills

THE ENVIRONMENT:

Smith Horsemanship’s private working horse farm

Shared, self-catering accommodation on-site

Rural setting with space to learn and focus

Full immersion in practical horse training and farm life

DIGITAL ACCESS:

1-Year access to the online course library (on launch)

THIS IS NOT FOR EVERYONE

This is not a bootcamp.
This is not a rehab facility.

This is for people who want to be pushed, challenged, and built into something more.

INVESTMENT:

💰 R5 000 Registration Fee.

💰 R22 650 Monthly Fee.

Pricing, Dates, Location & Info

Ready to Apply?

🎯 Only 10 spots available for 2027
💡 Over 80% of our previous programs filled within the first month!
🐴 Applications now open, don’t wait.

OR

Whatsapp Us

Start Your Pre-Application

Este Erasmus

An excellent place to learn real horsemanship, from groundwork to under-saddle training.

Dewald van Aarde

Roan’s knowledge, patience and passion are unmatched. I’ve improved in ways I didn’t think possible.

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Nicole de Jager

Clear and precise groundwork, taught with patience and passion. I left confident and empowered.

Frequently Asked Questions

GENERAL PROGRAM

CERTIFICATION OUTCOME

FINANCES APPLICATION

FAITH PHILOSOPHY

LIVING LOGISTICS

VISITATION - FAMILY

SAFETY SECURITY

OUTCOME AND FUTURE

SUPPORT AND EXPECTATIONS

ACADEMICS DAILY LIFE

ON CAMPUS RULES LIFESTYLE

EXPERIENCE SKILL LEVEL

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apply

2027 Academy

Pre- Application

Complete this short pre-application to find out whether the Smith Horsemanship Full-Year Academy may be the right fit for you.

This should take approximately 3 minutes. If your pre-application is successful, we will contact you about the next step and provide the full application documents.

Who is completing this form?

Applicant’s Name & Surname

Applicant’s age

Where does the applicant currently live (Town/City)?

WhatsApp number

Email address

Which best describes the applicant’s current horse experience?

What does the applicant most want to achieve through the Academy?

Become a more capable horseman or woman

Learn to train horses professionally

Build a future or business in the horse industry

Spend a purposeful year after school

Grow spiritually within a biblical environment

Why do you believe the Smith Horsemanship Academy is the right program for you, and what do you hope to do after completing it?

Please provide a thoughtful answer of at least three full sentences. Applications with vague or very limited answers may not proceed to the next stage.

Can the applicant commit to the full program from January to November 2027?

The Academy is physically demanding and involves daily horse handling, riding, training and farm-based activities. Is the applicant willing and physically able to participate?

The Academy is built around discipline, responsibility, personal development and a biblical worldview. Is the applicant comfortable participating in this environment?

The Academy investment is a R5,000 registration fee, followed by R22,650 per month for 12 months. Have you reviewed these fees and considered how you would fund the program?

Who will be responsible for paying the Academy fees?

When are you hoping to make a decision?

How did you hear about us?

Would you like to bring your own horse for training?

Yes, I have a horse that I would like to bring.

No, I would like to use one of your horses.

Has the applicant been convicted of a crime? (If yes, please give details)

Applicant’s social media profiles

Upload a photo of yourself.

Is there anything important we should know before contacting you?

Signature

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