We started the Term in September when we welcomed 10 riders from Coteford Junior School. This number included four new children who were joining the Wednesday Group. They have all made steady progress, are willing to listen to instructions and are keen to learn and progress. Under the watchful eye of Fern who is their Coach, both Groups have enjoyed doing a bit of everything. It is encouraging that, without exception, all the riders are prepared to try hard even when they find the instructions challenging. They have also learned to be adaptable if things go wrong and to accept and react well to any change of instruction. Currently the riders are working toward Grades 1 and 2 Proficiency Tests in Riding and Horse Care which they will take next Term. In their non-riding time the children write up their “Riding Journey” Booklet and learn about Horse Care in the Classroom. In addition, they are now being introduced to a “Hands On” experience in Horse Care on the Yard, such as grooming, tack cleaning, mucking out etc which allows them to try for themselves the real thing and provides the opportunity for a more rounded experience.
The highlight of this Term’s activities was the visit of Mari Durward-Akhurst who, partnered by Athene Lindebjerg, won a Bronze Medal at the Paris 2024 Paralympic Games in September. The children were thrilled to be given the opportunity to meet a Celebrity and had prepared well for her visit by watching a video of her performance, being helped to research exactly who was coming to meet them and thinking of questions they would like to ask her. Mari watched them all ride before they returned to the classroom where she told them that, like them, she too started her riding career with an RDA Group. The children then asked their excellent questions and were able to see for themselves a Paralympic Bronze Medal and the Bronze edition of the Paris 2024 Mascot. Each child received an Autographed photo of Mari and Athene to take home with them as a memento of her visit and had their photo taken with her which was sent directly to their parents. To complete this educational visit, Darwin had been tasked with preparing and delivering an excellent “Thank You” speech. He did it beautifully and we were super proud of him.
The Coteford Riding Term will conclude in mid-December when their last day of Riding will be devoted to Christmas Fun and Games activities.
