Social & Emotional Learning with Horses
Learning happens through experience, movement, and connection.
Our Equine Assisted Learning programs invite participants to learn with horses as active partners, not as equipment. Horses are highly perceptive. They notice body language, breathing, and emotional energy, and respond honestly in the moment. This natural feedback helps learners build awareness of themselves and how they relate to others.
 
Learning on the Ground First
All programs begin on the ground. Participants are supported to build confidence, trust, and a safe connection with the horse through guided activities.
After several sessions, and following discussion with you and our team, learning may progress into the saddle when appropriate. Any progression is based on readiness, confidence, and individual goals.
 
What Participants Explore
Through hands-on, horse-led activities, participants develop skills such as:
awareness of feelings in the body
staying calm in challenging moments
clear and respectful communication
confidence in social situations
understanding personal space and boundaries
teamwork, empathy, and cooperation
 
Horses reflect what they notice. If a participant becomes tense or unsure, the horse may slow down, pause, or disengage. With mentor guidance, learners practise adjusting their approach, regulating their emotions, and trying again.
These skills often carry through into school, friendships, family life, and community settings.
 
How Classes Are Structured
Each one-hour session is guided by an experienced mentor and a calm, well-trained horse. Activities are tailored to individual goals and may include:
ground-based learning with the horse
observation and communication tasks
obstacle and connection activities
Games on Horseback for social learning
the licensed Horses Helping Humans™ Youth Program
tailored mentorship with Will
Programs are suitable for children, teens, and young adults, with sessions adapted to each participant’s comfort level and experience.
 
Personalised progress reports are available on request.
 
Education Aligned with NDIS Goals
Sessions can support goals related to:
social participation and confidence
communication development
emotional awareness and regulation
community engagement
Supports may be accessed through Core or Capacity Building funding, including Innovative Community Participation where applicable.
 
Getting Started
The first session is a getting-to-know-each-other class. This allows us to meet the participant, introduce the horses, and explore goals, interests, and suitability for the program.
A $50 initial administration fee applies to this first session. This covers intake, preparation, and program setup.
There is no obligation to continue beyond the first session. The aim is for everyone to feel confident that the program is the right fit before moving forward.