i wouldnt ride straight away (of course) because he has to get used to his surroundings and new horse

1) put him in the arena (or a stable, but arena is better for them to be able to run round and take everything in etc.)

2) walk him round the yard in hand so he can have a good look round and say hi to the horses etc.

3) try lunging him. just do some trot work and if its going well do some canterwork

4) give him a rest in his stable and give him a carrot or apple and stroke him and groom him etc.

5) keep him in the stable for the night to settle him down

6) repeat yesterday !

7) once a few days has gone put him out to graze with his new field mates

8) once four days have gone have a ride in the arena with him!

hope that helps and that your horse settles in!

 Before you do anything, just bond, groom, pat, feed, talk to ect. after your horse feels safe around you, lead it around the sand school for abit, when the horse and you both feel confident, try a simple mount, then dismount. You've gotten through the first riding step, the next day, try walking, do a few laps round the school. next day try doing circuits and weaving in walk. Next day try trotting, then cantering, then a walk over the downs, then a trot over the downs then a canter over the downs! now you can do anything whenever you like! xx

 I got a new horse in July and this is what we did:

Make sure it arrives early to have time to settle in. If putting in field leave headcollar on at first.

Try grooming it and going to the field, it needs to get to know you and that you are kind :)