Throughout Term 2, our Saddle Club program gave young people the opportunity to build confidence, communication skills and self-awareness through working alongside horses.
Over eight weeks, young people developed meaningful relationships with their horses, learning that trust, patience and clear communication are the foundation of good horsemanship. Through grooming, leading, navigating obstacle courses and learning to guide their horses using body language, young people discovered how horses respond to human emotions and behaviour. This helped them develop a deeper understanding of both themselves and their horses, while growing in confidence each week.
The program also created strong connections within the group. Young people supported one another, celebrated each other’s achievements and formed new friendships in a positive and inclusive environment. The excitement and enjoyment shown each week highlighted just how meaningful the experience was, with many participants describing Saddle Club as the highlight of their week.
By the end of the term, the group of young people had not only developed practical horsemanship skills but had also grown in confidence, resilience, emotional awareness and communication. The Saddle Club program was a great example of how hands-on learning and positive relationships can support young people’s wellbeing and personal growth.
