Mission

Why horses? Horses make powerful therapists and teachers. As herd animals, horses rely on their ability to forge strong relationships with one another for survival, which makes them incredibly socially sensitive. 99% of equine communication is through body language which means that horses immediately pick up on changes in mental state by sensing minute changes in body language. As a result, horses can help young people struggling with behavioural and mental health problems to learn and develop vital life skills. What do horses actually do to help young people learn? Quickly break down defences and aggressive reactions Create immediate cause and effect situations from which young people can learn the consequences of their actions Challenge young people’s behaviour in non-threatening ways that are open and honest Motivate and hold attention Promote change from negative patterns to more positive healthy ones Enable serious life lessons to be learnt in a fun and relaxed way   How does equine assisted learning work? Equine assisted learning programmes provide an opportunity for young people to learn about horse behaviour and non-violent horse training techniques ("horse whispering") and in doing so learn a range of skills which are essential for success in education, employment and for building relationships with others.

Category

Animal Welfare

Additional Information

Learning Through Horses is a North London based charity delivering alternative education programmes, which, through working with horses, provide an opportunity for disengaged and / or vulnerable young people and adults to develop vital skills required to further their employment and educational success. Registered Charity No 1159326