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Oldfields School, a historic private boarding and day school for girls in grades 8-12, is more than your typical high school. Situated in the picturesque Maryland countryside, it combines a 158-year legacy of academic innovation with programs that empower young women, all within its college preparatory framework. Known for its strong sense of community, traditions, and small class sizes, Oldfields is setting a new standard in equine education with its immersive Equine Science Concentration. This unique program is attracting attention from students, college programs and professionals within the equine industry.
“Colleges and universities recognize the distinctive nature and value of our Equine Science Concentration. The path ahead is full of opportunity for our graduates.”
– Ansley Smithwick, Head of School
Equine Science Concentration
The Equine Science Concentration at Oldfields was created to address a growing need within the equine industry for young women to be equipped with both academic and practical knowledge. Recognizing this demand, Oldfields developed a distinctive program that blends classroom learning with real-world, hands-on experience.
Students work directly with horses, veterinarians, farriers, stable managers, trainers, and other industry professionals to apply their academic knowledge in workplace settings. Classes provide in-depth instruction in several critical areas:
- Equine Science
- History of the Horse in Sport
- Equine Anatomy & Physiology
- Equine/Small Business Math
- Stable & Horse Show Management
- Equine Nutrition & Wellness
- Grooming for Success
- Internship Opportunities
This immersive approach offers students opportunities to learn and to practice the skills needed to understand the science and business of the equine world. Whether it’s studying biomechanics, horse wellness, or managing the logistics of a barn or horse show, the applied experiences provide functional skills. These skills give our students a competitive edge as they transition to college or enter directly into the equine industry.
While riding is not a requirement, the program pairs seamlessly with Oldfields’ exceptional equestrian program, enabling students to deepen their understanding of horses both in and out of the saddle.
“Our Equine Science Concentration is designed to provide a foothold for high school students who want to pursue a degree in an equine or pre-veterinary field and for those that need experience to earn opportunities within the industry.”
– Amy Phillips, Director of Riding
Riding Program
For those who want to take their riding capabilities to the next level, Oldfields offers an impressive riding program integrated into the daily class schedule. Students receive personalized instruction in hunter/jumper, dressage, or eventing disciplines. With access to talented school horses, expert instructors, competitive opportunities at all levels, and top-tier clinicians, students are challenged to push their limits and refine their skills within a supportive, professional environment.
IEA Teams
The School also fosters a strong sense of community and teamwork through participation in the Middle and High School Interscholastic Equestrian Association (IEA) teams where students gain valuable experience in competitive riding and sportsmanship. A key component of the program is the focus on sports psychology and strength and conditioning. This helps develop a rider’s mental and physical resilience along with her technique.
Empowering the Next Generation
Oldfields School’s Equine Science Concentration goes beyond being just a program; it offers a comprehensive, career-focused pathway that empowers girls with practical skills, knowledge, and hands-on experience. This innovative program builds on the Oldfields tradition of combining real-world experiences with academic excellence. Confident and capable young women seamlessly transition into college programs or directly enter the equine industry equipped with advantageous micro-credentials. By shaping the future of female equine professionals, Oldfields continues to inspire and prepare its students to lead in this dynamic field.
“The knowledge and confidence I’ve gained in this program have exceeded my expectations. I’m now thinking in detail about how to start a business someday. Mrs. Goodrich, my teacher, inspires me every day and has also helped me better understand the mechanics of a horse, which has made a huge difference in my riding!”
– Colby S. ’26, Oldfields Student
Oldfields invites all students passionate about equine education to explore the many opportunities available within the Equine Science Concentration.
Visit the Oldfields website, follow their social media or contact the school to learn more!
www.OldfieldsSchool.org
443-662-1003
