Westerlands Equestrian
SADDLE CLUB
5* LICENCE BY CHICHESTER COUNCIL | BHS & ABRS+ APPROVED | INSURED BY NFU
We spark curiosity and confidence in young people, helping them to explore, learn and grow
Saddle Club is a 6-week programme created for Home Educated students aged 10-15 who would like to learn about pony care, equine behaviour and stable management. It’s more than just riding, it’s a structured educational journey into the world of horses. Through hands-on experiences and the unique bond between horses and humans, children can build confidence, team skills, resilience, and self-esteem in a safe and nurturing environment.
Learning Highlights
Our Saddle Club is more than just riding – it’s a structured, educational journey into the world of ponies. Over six weeks, participants will explore:
ᯓ★ Riding Skills – building confidence in the saddle, learning the basics of balance, control, and communication with ponies.
ᯓ★ Pony Care – hands-on experience in grooming, feeding, and understanding pony behaviour.
ᯓ★ Stable Management – learning how to muck out, tack up, and keep ponies comfortable and healthy.
ᯓ★ Safety & Responsibility – understanding how to care for both themselves and the ponies in a safe and respectful way.
ᯓ★ Personal Growth – developing resilience, patience, teamwork, and self-esteem through real-life experiences.
Saddle Club offers children the chance to connect with ponies, nature, and each other in a safe, supportive, and nurturing environment.
Recognising achievement
Every participant is recognised for their achievements through a special Rosette Award System. Each rosette reflects not only their growing knowledge of pony care, equine behaviour, and stable management, but also the confidence, teamwork, and resilience they build along the way. These awards celebrate individual milestones while encouraging students to keep learning, exploring, and deepening their connection with horses.
⭐ Bronze Rosette – Stable Starter
For showing enthusiasm and learning the basics of horse care and safety.
⭐ Silver Rosette – Confident Carer
For developing independence, teamwork, and stronger equine knowledge.
⭐ Gold Rosette – Equine Achiever
For demonstrating excellent skills, leadership, and confidence around horses.
How much does it cost?
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.
Programme: 6 weeks
Start Date: 10 September 2025
End Date: 15 October 2025
Day: Wednesday
Time: 10am to 1pm (3 hours)
Price: £50/day per child (£300 total)
Ages: 10-15 years
Attendance fee for the full course is paid in advance.
*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 Terms & Conditions
By making a booking it is understood you agree to our standard TERMS & CONDITIONS therefore we strongly recommend you read them carefully before you make a booking. Here are some key points:
➤ Minimum age is 3yrs
➤ Maximum weight is 88kg/14 stone
➤ It is important that you don’t over estimate your riding capability so that we can choose the most appropriate horse and provide the best experience for you.
➤ We operate a No Refund Policy. This is a condition of booking.
How do we sign up?
Step 1
Download and complete our Saddle Club Referral Form.
Step 2
Scan and email the completed form to our Equestrian Manager, Elly Middleton who will respond within 48hrs.
Step 3
The team will review your Referral Form to assess if we can meet the needs of your child then Elly will contact you to ask any questions and confirm his/her place.
Step 4
Pay online to reserve your child’s place on the programme.
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.
Our Equestrian Team
Elly Middleton
EQUESTRIAN MANAGER
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 BHS First Aider.
-
Natalie Lane
EQUESTRIAN TEAM
-
Anna O'Leary
EQUESTRIAN TEAM
-
Rosie
EQUESTRIAN TEAM
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.