Equines in Education: Helping Pupils Grow, Learn, and Thrive at Hill Croft Special School
This newly launched Equines in Education programme at Hill Croft Special School gives pupils the opportunity to build confidence, resilience, and essential life skills.
Building on the success of our pilot at St Colmcille’s and the two-year programme at Knockevin Special School, this initiative strengthens our mission to expand Equine Assisted Learning (EAL) and support communities across Northern Ireland.
In partnership with a dedicated practitioner from Clady Water Farm – Equine Learning Centre and school staff, this programme provides weekly onsite EAL sessions, bringing hands-on activities with gentle ponies directly to the pupils. The programme supports pupils aged 3–19 with severe learning difficulties within the nurture department at Hill Croft School, helping them to learn, connect, and grow in a safe and nurturing environment.
Programme Aims
Research and our experience with previous initiatives show that EAL can provide a wide range of benefits including:
1. Improved Social Skills:
Working with horses encourages clear communication and understanding of non-verbal cues, supporting better social interactions, empathy, and teamwork.
2. Enhanced Emotional Regulation:
The calming presence of horses helps reduce anxiety and stress, promoting emotional well-being and supporting children as they learn to recognise and manage their emotions.
3. Increased Self-Esteem and Confidence:
Successfully participating in tasks with horses gives pupils a sense of accomplishment, helping to build self-esteem and belief in their abilities.
4. Educational Benefits:
EAL can support academic learning by improving focus, responsibility, and the ability to interact positively with others.
5. Behavioural Improvements:
With growing self-esteem, self-awareness, the ability to manage their emotions, and stronger relationships, children can develop greater self-regulation and improved behaviour.
The Practitioner
Diane and Dainty from Clady Water Farm – Equine Learning Centre visit the campus weekly to deliver the sessions, bringing expertise, care, and compassion.
By providing this early support, we hope to help pupils begin developing resilience and essential life skills, providing a foundation for long-term growth and wellbeing.
Keep an eye out for updates, outcomes, and pictures as the programme progresses!
Your support makes this possible. Every donation enables pupils at Hill Croft School to take part in this new initiative, develop life skills, and experience the benefits of Equine Assisted Learning.