Equine Assisted Learning at Charnwood Forest Alpacas
Equine Assisted Learning is a unique method of education that promotes the development of life skills for educational, professional and personal goals through equine activities. Horses can be particularly therapeutic as they have the ability to sense what people around them feel and respond to this making them good at supporting emotional regulation. Our programme offers children, young people and adults the opportunity to engage in learning through participating in activities with our carefully selected horses.
WHO CAN BENEFIT?
Equine Assisted Learning benefits children with Special educational needs, those who have difficulties with traditional schooling or learning difficulties and children that require additional support needs. The programme is also suitable for those with behavioural difficulties or struggle emotionally.
Equine Assisted Learning additionally benefits adults who are trying to seek change from certain patterns such as drug and alcohol addiction or in managing anxiety. It can also however be used as a team building opportunity to help staff build trusting working relationships.
Horse riding experience is not required as all of the work with our horses is done on the ground. This enables you to build a strong relationship with your horse by spending quality time together through building a trusting relationship where a horse will follow instruction. The instant feedback gained is hugely rewarding and empowering.
WORKING WITH HORSES HELPS TO DEVELOP:
Effective communication skills, confidence, self worth and self-esteem, leadership and parenting skills, compassion, coping mechanisms,
self-regulation and responsibility.
OUR HORSESHOE APPROACH
Here at Charnwood Forest Alpacas we have developed our very own learning system. This learning system has been created from known evidence based approaches such as the seven point star system. Our Horseshoe approach supports stimulated learning, develops self awareness and builds confidence.
The key points of the system are:
1. Learn to be present
2. Learn the value of communication
3. Build & embed trust
4. Develop Connections
5. Time out for self reflection
The aim of our programme through the Horseshoe Approach is to increase self confidence, self worth, improving communication skills whilst having fun outdoors.
Equine Learning Values
We believe that working to our set of values below enables our team of people, and animals, to deliver the best possible experience to our participants.
HORSE
Through working with our horses with a horse first approach we believe that we offer a better learning and horsemanship experience. We believe that the horse is our partner and that being understood, well cared for and treated with kindness is essential for their welfare.
HEART
Working with people and horses requires encouragement, appreciation and effective communication. We provide plenty of support to the horses, ponies and participants we work with.
PEOPLE
Through understanding each participant's individual differences and aspirations we are able to offer a tailored approach. We understand that everyone is unique, and develops at their own pace so we are here to support along the way.
FOUNDATION
We create a platform for each individual to progress though focusing on solid foundations. We recognise that well built foundations in horsemanship, riding, learning, and personal development is key to progression.
CLOTHING
Please ensure you are wearing suitable footwear, we recommend boots and closed-toe shoes with a strong sole. As we are working outside you should expect to get a little dirty. During the summer months we recommend sun cream, bug spray and plenty of water. During the winter months we recommend gloves, hats and some warm layers.
Our Equine Assisted Learning programme is also suited to corporate clients who are looking to develop their communication skills and leadership qualities. The programme is suitable for team building which improves morale and boosts mental health through mindfulness.
If you are interested in our Equine Assisted package or would like more information
please fill in the below form and a member of our team will be in touch!
CONTACT US FOR MORE INFORMATION