Horsing around is generally frowned upon in the classroom, but for a group of south-of-town elementary students it was to be expected.
Rebecca Harrison’s students, a split class of grades four, five and six, from Kelly Creek Community School attended five two-hour morning sessions at Powell River Therapeutic Riding Association. The association provides opportunities for people with developmental disabilities to ride horses and had an opening in its schedule to encourage school children to learn about horses.
During April and part of May, the students learned about how to care for horses and feed them, how to take care of a stable and give the students a chance in the saddle.
“It’s very hands-on,” said Dusty Reid, volunteer coordinator for the riding organization. “They come into the arena all excited, but calm right down near the horses.”
The students met the farrier to learn about horses’ hooves, helped give the horses water, cleaned their stable stalls and learned how to ride, said Reid.
The students, some of whom had never been in contact with horses, gained an instant connection and confidence with the graceful animals, she added.
Harrison commented on how well the program was put together and that it gave the students a range of knowledge and experience that met their individual needs.
“It was very well thought out,” she said. “The kids had a great time and learned a lot. It worked out really well.”
Harrison said that given the opportunity, she would definitely participate in the program again with her students saying that it related directly with her teaching curriculum.
“It was a meaningful experience,” she added.
Reid said that based on the success she saw with the Kelly Creek students she hopes other elementary schools decide to participate in the program in the future.
“I think it went really well,” said Reid. “The students seemed really enthusiastic and loved the riding.”
