WES Professionals are experienced western equestrian experts who have undergone a rigorous assessment process to ensure they meet the high standards required to represent the Western Equestrian Society.
Whether you’re a recreational rider looking to develop your skills, or a competitor aiming to refine your performance, WES Professionals are here to help you achieve your goals with expert coaching, training and support.
What is a WES Professional?
The WES Professional category covers a wide range of western equestrian experts, including:
- Instructors – Teaching western riding skills at all levels
- Trainers – Working with horses to develop correct foundations or prepare for competition
- Coaches – Supporting riders with competition preparation and personal development
All WES Professionals are required to:
- Demonstrate exceptional skill and understanding of western riding and horsemanship
- Hold valid Public Liability Insurance (minimum £5 million cover)
- Hold a current First Aid qualification (as defined by WES rules)
- Have attended an approved Child Protection course (if working with minors)
Important Note: Members booking a WES Professional are advised to request up-to-date copies of these documents directly from the Professional. WES does not hold ongoing responsibility for monitoring individual professionals' documentation.
Find a WES Professional
Explore our directory of approved WES Professionals below to find an Instructor, Trainer, or Coach near you. We have provided lots of different ways you can see the Professionals! - want to see them all alphabetically, we got this! - prefer to see them based on their location, hey we can do that as well. Just use the tabs at the top of the table to select your preferred view.
How to Become a WES Professional
WES holds regular Professional Assessment Days, where potential new Professionals can demonstrate their skills, knowledge, and teaching ability. If you’re an experienced western rider or trainer and want to join the growing network of WES Professionals, you can:
- Download the latest application form below
- Review the current WES Professional Assessment Criteria below
Note: From 2025, the new role of WES Educational Officer will work directly with all approved WES Professionals to support ongoing professional development and ensure consistent standards across the Society.
WES Professional Levels – A Guide
The WES Professional Levels recognise increasing levels of expertise, experience and autonomy.
Level 1 – Assistant Professional ⭐
- Works under supervision of a more experienced Professional
- Can teach basic western riding skills to novice riders on trained horses
- Ideal for those working within riding schools or early in their professional careers
Level 2 – Independent Professional ⭐⭐
- Good theoretical and practical knowledge across all WES disciplines
- Can teach independently (private lessons or groups)
- Prepares students and horses for local or novice-level WES competitions
- Competent handling both trained and novice horses
Level 3 – Advanced Professional ⭐⭐⭐
- Demonstrates a high degree of practical skill and theoretical knowledge
- Proven ability in at least two specialist disciplines (e.g., Horsemanship, Trail, Ranch Riding)
- Capable of preparing horses and riders for competition at National Championship level
Level 4 – Senior Professional ⭐⭐⭐⭐
- Highly experienced and fully autonomous
- Demonstrates advanced skills and deep theoretical knowledge
- Competent across at least five specialist disciplines
- Trusted to develop training programmes for horses and riders at all levels
Level 5 – Honorary Professional ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
- Awarded at the discretion of the WES Council to individuals who have made an exceptional contribution to western equestrianism in the UK
- Reflects a lifetime of professional excellence and service to the Society
- Level 5 is honorary and not tied to any assessment process
Questions?
If you have any questions about the new WES Professional structure, or you’re interested in becoming a WES Professional, please contact Lee Rutter for more information
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