Schools Equine Outreach Programme
The Schools Equine Outreach Programme brings one of our therapy ponies to local special schools and ASD units in mainstream schools. It is a morning of fun and interaction, allowing each child to go at their own pace. It is designed to target the areas of social, emotional and behavioural wellbeing.
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Through structured games and activities with the pony, the children are encouraged to interact with their equine visitor. The pony’s natural qualities and behaviour allow for a rich and experiential learning for each pupil. We repeat routines that focus on all of the senses, gently encouraging the children to increase their awareness and sensory regulation.
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The Programme brings the pony into a safe and familiar environment for the children and also brings the rural to those who may not have the opportunity to otherwise experience it.
We carry out a full risk assessment prior to the visit, are fully insured on all school grounds and see about 24 children in the time that we are present. We are happy to visit schools in Dublin and Wicklow.
​RESEARCH SHOWS BENEFITS IN KEY AREAS SUCH
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Sensory awareness
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Empathy
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Self-regulation
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Decision Making
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Communication Skills
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Self confidence
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Spatial Awareness through movement/doing fun obstacle courses with the pony
Testimonials
The programme was so well run and the impact it had on our children was phenomenal. The benefits of the programme were recognisable from the very first session. Meeting and interacting with Tiny, the pony, allowed for new sensory experiences and sensory regulation, which our children thrived off. The programme also encourages co-operation, teamwork, turn
taking, patience and development of empathy with something outside of oneself, all of which is so important in everyday life
Leonie Larkin (SNA, Ballyowen Meadows Special School)
