Horse riding therapy

Our horse riding therapy sessions offer people with learning and physical disabilities a unique and enriching experience.

We specialise in therapeutic riding sessions for all abilities, and our experienced instructors ensure a positive and enjoyable experience. Through horse riding, participants improve motor skills, strength, and balance, and boost confidence, co-ordination, self-esteem, and fitness, while developing social skills and meaningful connections with the animals.

Fees from our sessions contribute to the vital work we do, providing life-changing experiences for people with learning disabilities, many of whom help care for our horses in the stables.

Please note that due to the popularity of our horse riding therapy sessions, there may be a waiting list of up to six months.

Take the reins and book a horse riding therapy session

Therapeutic riding:  Accessible facilities and tailored lessons

Facilities designed for accessibility

At Ferring Country Centre, we have high quality facilities that cater to individuals with learning and physical disabilities, ensuring a safe experience. Our facilities include:

Structure of sessions

Through our therapeutic riding sessions, we cater to individuals, day care centres, schools, and specialist groups. Riders are first assessed and placed into groups based on skill level. As they progress, they can move on to more advanced activities, and our trained instructors adapt equipment and sessions to meet each rider’s goals.

In addition to riding, participants have the chance to enjoy fun days, games, and sensory-based sessions. Horse riding therapy at Ferring Country Centre runs on a variety of days, including evenings and weekends, ensuring flexibility for all participants.

Join our riding community today – register now

Our horse riding therapy prices

Please be advised that all payments will be requested at the time of booking.

Experience the benefits of horse riding therapy

Meet our instructors

Helen Bridger – Riding School Manager

Helen doesn’t remember a time when she didn’t love horses! She started riding when she was 10 years old and was hooked after just one lesson. Helen’s first horse-related job was as an eventing groom where she gained all her practical skills and foundational knowledge of horses. She attended equine college and gained professional equestrian qualifications, coaching certificates, and her Intermediate Stable Manager’s Certificate.

Helen joined us in 2002 as our Riding Therapy Manager, before becoming manager of our riding school in 2020. When teaching, her focus is to impart as much practical knowledge as she can to inform the rider. Helen competes in dressage, and she has won a championship while riding Mr Snuffles from our riding school.

“I absolutely love every day at my job. I have an amazing team working with me, and I look forward to developing the riding school and continuing to impart as much knowledge to people as I can.”

Kayeley Flower - Riding School Team Leader

Kayeley has been working in the equine industry since she was 16, and attended Brinsbury College where she gained an HND and Level 3 qualification in equine management. Her studies helped her develop a passion for teaching others and she took her horsemanship and coaching exams through the British Horse Society.

After spending five years teaching at Plumpton College, Kayeley joined our team in 2023 and combines her teaching experience with her love of caring for horses.

“I love my role as Riding School Team Leader. I’m passionate about helping our riders grow and develop their skills in a supportive environment.”

Emma Franks – Riding School Coach

Emma has been a dedicated member of the team at Ferring Country Centre since 2008. Working four days a week, Emma is responsible for teaching all levels of horse riding therapy, helping individuals of various abilities connect with horses and experience the therapeutic benefits of riding. Her passion for equine education extends beyond just teaching people – Emma is also deeply involved in the training and care of the horses at the centre.

Emma enjoys riding her own pony, Buddy, alongside her daughter. Together, they explore the beautiful trails of the South Downs.

“It’s wonderful seeing the positive impact horses have on people’s lives, especially through the power of riding therapy.”

Tabitha Whistler – Riding School Assistant Coach

Tabitha received her first horse – a naughty Shetland pony – when she was just two years old, and has had horses ever since. She joined Ferring Country Centre as a support worker on our farm in 2018, before joining our stables team in 2022.

Tabitha has gained her Stage 1 and Stage 2 groom and coach qualifications from the British Horse Society and, as our hack leader, she leads rides to the beach and around Ferring village.

“I’m excited about being part of a great team that delivers so much enjoyment. I love the interaction and engagement with the horses, visitors and the people with learning disabilities who we support.”

Want to know more about our horse riding therapy?

Frequently asked questions

What is horse riding therapy? And what are the benefits?

Horse riding therapy, also known as therapeutic riding, is a form of physical, emotional, and social support for individuals with disabilities. It offers numerous benefits, including improved motor skills, balance, strength, and flexibility. It also helps enhance social interactions, communication skills, self-confidence, and emotional wellbeing. Additionally, it provides a unique sense of achievement and the chance to bond with the horses.

Who can participate in horse riding therapy?

Our programme is open to individuals with a wide range of learning and physical disabilities. We welcome participants with conditions such as Down’s syndrome, ADHD, autism, cerebral palsy, and others. Riders as young as four years old can take part, and there’s no upper age limit.

How do I enrol in the horse riding therapy programme?

To enrol, you’ll need to create an account through our online booking system and complete the rider information form. Once we receive your details, you will be added to our waiting list. We may reach out for additional information if necessary to assist with your application.

What are the weight limits for riding therapy?

To ensure the safety of both riders and horses, participants must weigh no more than 14 stone (approximately 89 kilograms).

How do I pay for sessions?

Payment for sessions is made online via debit or credit card, and payment will be taken at the time of booking.

What equipment do I need?

For the first three months, we provide riding hats that conform to British Safety Standards. After this period, riders are required to bring their own hats that meet the current safety requirements. Riders should wear comfortable, loose-fitting clothing, such as jodhpurs or tracksuits, and shoes with a low heel. Trainers, skirts, jeans, and shorts are not suitable for riding.

Where do the therapeutic riding sessions take place?

Sessions take place in our indoor or outdoor arenas, on the nature trail, or out on village lanes depending on the rider’s ability. Before starting, riders must complete the application process and attend an assessment session, where they will discuss their goals and the benefits of riding therapy.

Who are the instructors?

Our qualified instructors are trained to British Horse Society standards, ensuring a high-quality, safe, and supportive learning environment for all riders.

Are your horses safe to ride?

Our horses and ponies are selected for their calm, well-mannered temperaments and are trained to work with riders of varying abilities. While we take every precaution to ensure safety, it’s important to remember that horse riding is a physical activity, and some risk is always involved.

I am a wheelchair user. Can I still ride?

Yes! We have a lift and hoist system available for those who need assistance mounting. Our horses are fully trained for this activity, ensuring a safe and enjoyable experience for all riders.

I am a parent/carer/key worker, how do I participate?

You are welcome to stay and observe the session or walk alongside during rides. However, it is essential that the rider focuses on the instructor during the session, so we ask that you refrain from distracting them while they’re riding.