Changing Lives Through Horses
Knowing all that horses have done for us and for many young people, we are delighted to be part of Changing Lives Through Horses. This is a programme developed by Britain’s largest equine charity, The British Horse Society (BHS). The BHS strongly believes that horses and equine-facilitated learning can play a significant role in transforming a young person’s life.
As a result, this alternative education programme facilitates children and young people learning with horses in a safe and nurturing environment. It’s led by highly trained coaches at British Horse Society Approved Riding Centres, including Follifoot Park Riding Centre.
When did Changing Lives Through Horses begin?
The Changing Lives Through Horses programme was first piloted in 2016, receiving excellent feedback from the twelve centres involved. Since then the programme has steadily grown. In 2024, over 100 centres participate across the country. So far, more than 3,500 young people have accessed the programme. Coaches receive ongoing support and regular training from the dedicated Changing Lives Through Horses team at BHS.
Who is CLTH for?
The programme welcomes children and young people aged 5 to 25 who have additional needs in any sense. It is especially beneficial for those who would gain from equine-facilitated learning. Participants may include young people with special educational needs, such as those with social or emotional mental health needs. Furthermore, it helps those disengaged from or excluded from education. It is also suitable for those without a school place or who are home-educated.
Additionally, it supports young people who have experienced trauma or adverse childhood experiences.
How does Changing Lives Through Horses work?
The main goal of the programme is to develop and support six key life skills:
- Communication
- Confidence
- Teamwork
- Building Relationships
- Perseverance
- Responsibility
The programme is structured around two frameworks aimed at younger and older participants. Both offer horse care and ridden modules (although some centres only offer horse care). In both cases, participants receive structured awards and certificates that recognise and reward their achievements.
These awards provide opportunities to develop essential life skills, which are transferable back to school, further education, or social settings. In addition, participants practice learning skills that link to their school curriculum. As a result, they build a portfolio of equine knowledge and experience, which could lead to further industry qualifications. Some centres even offer an Ofqual-accredited Personal Development Qualification integrated within the programme at Entry Level 3, Level 1, and Level 2.
How is the programme funded?
At Follifoot Park we have been well supported by local schools. We also have privately-funded young people who participate. The BHS fundraises centrally to provide all the learning materials and training required to offer the programme. Occasionally, bursaries may be available to fund individual sessions. However, in most cases, the cost of sessions is covered by the school or referral agency. Therefore, it’s best to discuss this with your local centre.
For general enquiries, you can contact the Changing Lives Through Horses team on 02476 840545 or by email at changinglives@bhs.org.uk. For specific enquiries, you can contact us.