HD Horsemanship offers inclusive Horse Riding and Equine‑Facilitated Learning sessions for children across Dorset. We welcome all children, those who are home-educated as well as those with special educational needs, embracing each child’s unique journey while helping them to build skills, confidence, and a love of horses.
We keep our group sizes small so that every child receives the individual support and attention they need.
HD Horsemanship is not a traditional riding school. We exist for children and young people who may otherwise find riding inaccessible due to their social, emotional, or health needs. Although we are not an RDA centre, we support those children who fall between traditional riding lessons and the more specialist services offered through RDA programmes.
Why horse riding and outdoor learning?
Horse riding and being outdoors offer a powerful combination of physical, emotional, and social benefits. Natural environments help to reduce stress, anxiety, and sensory overload, promoting calmness, focus, and emotional regulation.
Riding is a full‑body activity that supports balance, coordination, core strength, posture, muscle tone, and motor planning. Children develop confidence, resilience, and problem‑solving skills, learning at their own pace and celebrating every achievement in a nurturing environment.
Working with horses also promotes empathy, communication, and responsibility. Through grooming, tacking up, and general horse care, children learn patience, respect, and the value of consistency and routine. Building a relationship with a horse can be incredibly empowering, helping young people develop trust, self‑esteem, and a sense of connection.
Outdoor learning further enhances these benefits by encouraging exploration, curiosity, and hands‑on experiences. Time in nature supports physical health, mental wellbeing, concentration, and overall happiness, offering meaningful learning opportunities for children of all abilities.
At HD Horsemanship, our sessions are designed to be inclusive, supportive, and strengths‑based, creating a safe and positive environment where every child can thrive, grow in confidence, and develop a lifelong appreciation for horses and the outdoors.
If you would like to know more, please visit our website or social media page.