Westerlands Equestrian

CHANGING LIVES

THROUGH HORSES

5* LICENCE BY CHICHESTER COUNCIL | BHS & ABRS+ APPROVED | INSURED BY NFU

We inspire and empower young people so they can look forward to a bright future

Changing Lives Through Horses is an alternative education programme created by the British Horse Society to help young people build vital life skills and find positive pathways for the future. Using the transformative bond between horses and humans, the programme provides a safe and nurturing space where participants can develop six key life skills and foster personal growth including resilience and self-esteem.

Equine-facilitated learning can play a remarkable role in positively shaping a young person’s life. 

When was the programme developed? 

Since Changing Lives Through Horses was developed and piloted in 2016, it has grown to over 130 trained centres nationwide with over 3,500 young people accessing the programme to date.

Who is the Programme for? 

The programme welcomes children and young people aged 5-25 years who would benefit from access to equine facilitated learning. Participants may include those with special educational needs, including social and emotional mental health needs, those who may be disengaged or excluded from education, those who are without a school place or are electively home educated and those who may have experienced trauma or adverse childhood experiences. 

Nurturing Key Life Skills

Through engaging experiences with horses, the programme supports children and young adults in developing six key life skills and fostering personal growth.

ᯓ★ Communication
ᯓ★ Confidence
ᯓ★ Teamwork
ᯓ★ Building Relationships
ᯓ★ Perseverance
ᯓ★ Responsibility

How do you meet the needs of a wide age range?

The programme offers two tailored frameworks: one for younger participants (ages 5–11) and one for older participants (ages 12–25), with flexible options ranging from small group school-day sessions to one-to-one appointments, depending on individual needs and school requirements. Both offer horse care and ridden modules (ridden modules are optional).

Recognising achievement

Awards and Certificates

Participants are recognised for their achievements through age-appropriate awards and certificates, designed to reflect their individual level of skills and progress. These acknowledgements not only celebrate personal milestones but also help to motivate and inspire continued growth and learning.

🏆 Bronze & Silver Awards (ages 5-11)
🏆 Explorer Awards (ages 12-25)
📚 We also offer an Ofqual-accredited Personal Development Qualification integrated within the programme at Entry Levels 1, 2 and 3 if required. 

Transferrable Skills

The activities within each award are designed to help participants develop six key life skills that are widely transferable. They provide opportunities to:

✓ Re-engage with school, further education, or social settings
✓ Practice learning skills linked to their school curriculum
✓ Build a portfolio of equine knowledge and practical experience
✓ Work towards pathways leading to further industry-recognised qualifications

How much does it cost? 

Thanks to central fundraising by the BHS, all learning materials are provided, and Westerlands supplies riding hats and high-visibility jackets to keep everyone safe. Refreshments are available at The Hub*, and we just ask that participants bring along their own packed lunch.

Days: Mondays and Friday
Times: 10am to 2pm (4 hours)
Price: £140pp per day

The programme can be offered over a set period of time, as part of a wider package of support or could be an open-ended referral to be reviewed regularly by parents or the school and the centre. 

Attendance fees can be paid by parents, the school or a referral agency.

*The Hub, right next to our Equestrian Centre, is a cosy space where participants can take a break in a warm, dry space with comfy seating, tables, a kitchen, and toilet facilities.

Our Team

Our coaches receive regular training and support from the dedicated Changing Lives Through Horses team at the BHS.

Elly Middleton

LEAD COACH

  • Elly manages Westerlands Equestrian and has over 30 years experience taking care of horses and teaching riders of all ages and abilities. She also specialises in natural complimentary equine therapies.

    Elly’s qualifications include:
    - BHS Accredited Professional Coach
    - BHS Stage 3 in Complete Horsemanship
    - Equine Behaviourist
    - Certified Reiki Practioner
    - Safeguarding Officer
    - Fully Qualified BHS First Aider 

Gemma Peterson

PROGRAMME CO-ORDINATOR

  • Gemma brings several years of experience as an Equine Facilitated Learning (EFL) session facilitator.

    Gemma’s qualifications include:
    - Advanced Child Safeguarding (Level 4)
    - Fully Qualified BHS First Aider 
    - MSc Health Psychology
    - BSc (Hons) Psychology 
    - Diploma in Equine Psychology 
    - Diploma in Understanding Young People's Mental Health
    - Certified Reiki Practioner

Why Choose Westerlands?

Westerlands has been a respected centre of equine care for 120 years. We believe in fostering a deep understanding and appreciation for horses, teaching responsibility and nurturing a bond that goes beyond riding.

Our Horses

Our ponies are friendly, well-trained, and eager to work alongside you. Whether you’re brushing, feeding, or just spending time with them, each one is sure to make your day better.

Our Instructors

Our knowledgeable staff are here to teach you everything you need to know about caring for horses. They are passionate about equine care and dedicated to your success.

A Community

At Westerlands, you’ll meet other young people who may share similar circumstances to you. It’s not just about learning — it’s about building friendships, teamwork and memories.

How do we sign up?

We have a robust referral process at Westerlands. Our team based at The CLTH Westerlands Hub will ensure that the programme is suitable for your child/pupil and that there is due regard to safeguarding, risk assessments and expected outcomes.

Step 1
Download and complete our Referral Form.

Referral Form

Step 2
Scan and email the completed form to our CLTH Programme Co-ordinator, Gemma Peterson who will respond within 48hrs.

Email Gemma

Step 3
We will review your Referral Form to assess if we can meet the needs of your child then Gemma will contact you to arrange a meeting with the family and/or school to discuss the programme further.

What to expect, what do we do?

  • Horse Behaviour & Communication

    Horses don’t speak our language, but they do communicate in their own way. Learn how to read their body language and understand what your pony is trying to tell you.

  • Grooming & Care

    Learn how to clean and brush a pony the right way so that they feel relaxed and cared for. You’ll discover the best techniques for brushing and how to spot issues with coat or skin health.

  • Creativity

    Decorating a pony’s tail with ribbons is a fun, creative activity that helps children develop fine motor skills, patience, and focus. It also gives them a real sense of pride and achievement.

  • Feeding & Nutrition

    Understand what makes a horse healthy and happy! Learn about the different types of horse feed, how to create balanced feeding routines and the essentials of equine health and nutrition.

  • Equine Health & Safety

    Learn how to take care of your horse when they’re feeling under the weather, including how to spot common health issues, perform basic checks and support them in staying healthy and active.

  • Hoof Care & Maintenance

    Discover the basics of hoof care — from cleaning hooves to recognising signs of discomfort or illness. A healthy hoof is key to a healthy pony!

  • Lunging

    Learning to lunge a pony teaches children calmness, patience, and clear communication while improving coordination. It builds confidence, responsibility, and awareness of how to keep both themselves and the pony safe.

  • Stable Management

    Experience the behind-the-scenes work that goes into keeping a stable and yard clean, organised and safe. You’ll learn all about mucking out, organising feed and supplies and making sure your horse has a comfortable home.

  • Teamwork & Leadership

    Working with horses teaches responsibility, patience and empathy. You’ll develop leadership skills while helping younger equestrians, learning how to communicate and collaborate in an equine environment.

  • Getting Rider Fit

    Being fit helps you ride better and stay safe. Simple exercises like stretching, balancing, and moving your body make it easier to stay steady in the saddle and enjoy longer rides. Learning to look after your fitness also helps you care for your pony.

  • Tacking Up

    Tacking up, learning the names of each piece, is a hands-on experience teaching children about the equipment used in riding and the importance of preparing a pony for a safe and comfortable ride.

  • Horse Riding

    Horses are responsive to a rider’s energy and teens are often able to tune into these subtle cues. Riding provides a great opportunity for children to challenge themselves, build resilience and enjoy a sense of freedom and independence.