Westerlands Equestrian

CHANGING LIVES

THROUGH HORSES

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

At Westerlands we inspire and empower young people so they can look forward to a bright future 💚

Changing Lives Through Horses is a national 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 supportive space where participants can grow in confidence, resilience and self-esteem.

What is the Changing Lives Through Horses programme? 

The British Horse Society Changing Lives Through Horses is an alternative education programme where children and young people can learn in a safe and nurturing environment alongside highly trained coaches at British Horse Society Approved Riding Centres such as us at Westerlands. The BHS believes that horses and equine facilitated learning can have a remarkable role to play in impacting on a young person’s life. 

When was the programme developed? 

The Changing Lives Through Horses programme was developed and piloted in 2016 with excellent feedback from the twelve centres involved. Since then, the programme has grown, with in excess of 130 trained centres nationwide and over 3500 young people accessing the programme to date. Our coaches receive support to run the programme and regular training from the dedicated Changing Lives Through Horses team at the BHS. 

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. 

What does the programme involve? 

The main aim of the programme is to develop and support 6 key life skills: Communication, Confidence, Teamwork, Building Relationships, Perseverance, and Responsibility. The programme is structured around two frameworks aimed at younger and older participants. Both offer horse care and ridden modules (ridden modules are optional) with structured awards and certificates that recognise and reward achievement.

Activities contained in each award provide opportunities for the participant to develop in the six key life skills that are widely transferable back to school, further education opportunities or socially, practice learning skills linked to their school curriculum and build a portfolio of equine knowledge and experience that could lead to a pathway of further industry qualifications. 

We will also offer an Ofqual-accredited Personal Development Qualification integrated within the programme at Entry Level 3, Level 1 and Level 2 if required. 

How can your school get involved? 

Our Changing Lives Through Horses centre at Westerlands offers the programme from full school days for small groups to 1:1 sessions at certain times, depending on the needs of the individual and what the referring school is looking for. This programme will commence in September 2025 and spaces will be limited. 

We have a robust referral process at Westerlands, and our coaches will work in partnership with you to ensure that the programme is suitable for your pupil(s) and that there is due regard to safeguarding, risk assessments and expected outcomes. 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 the school and the centre. 

The BHS centrally fundraise to provide all the learning materials and training that Westerlands need to offer the programme. Occasionally, there are bursaries made available to fund individual sessions, but in most cases, the costs for the sessions are met by the school or referral agency. If funding is a concern, please feel free to reach out and discuss this with us. 

Who is our Lead Coach

Elly Middleton

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
Q Equine Behaviourist
Certified Reiki Practioner
Safeguarding Officer
Fully qualified First Aider.

How to enroll

Step 1
Download and complete our Referral Form by clicking the button below.

Step 2
Scan and email the completed form to our Equestrian Manager, Elly Middleton.

Step 3
Elly will get in touch with you to answer any questions and confirm if your student has been accepted on the programme at Westerlands.

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

On our Changing Lives Through Horses programme, 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.

What to expect, what do students 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 groom your pony from head to tail. You’ll discover the best techniques for brushing, mane and tail care and how to spot issues with coat or skin health.

  • 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!

  • 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.

  • 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 teens to challenge themselves, build resilience and enjoy a sense of freedom and independence.