How Our Sessions Work

Depending on how you’re attending SLTH, whether with your school, for a group or as an individual, your programme will look a little different. Our programmes are split into Education, where you may work towards qualifications, Wellbeing, and Therapy, where the focus is more on connecting and understanding the horses and ourselves. Though these programmes may all look a bit different, in all of them you will learn about horse psychology, get to know our horses, and learn some new skills.

Q&A

Why am I coming to SLTH?

Young people come to SLTH for lots of different reasons. While some may come to learn about the horses and gain qualifications and skills, others might be looking to meet new people or have some time to hang out with our horses and relax.

What sort of things will I be doing?

At SLTH we do a range of activities, skills, and qualifications. Here you may learn how to brush a horse and carry out a wellbeing check or how to make up their food and clean the spaces they live in. You may also have a chance to learn how to lead a horse, guide them through obstacles and work with them loose in our arena. There is a range of activities for you to try out while you’re here depending on what you enjoy and what your goals are.

Will there be other young people there?

It is likely that when you are at SLTH there will be other young people there. During the week our site is often quite busy with people and school groups, however we make sure that everyone has their own space for their session. If you feel worried about seeing or interacting with other young people, let our staff know and we can make sure that we find a quiet place to work in.

 What kind of clothes will I need to wear?

Rain or shine, we are always outside with the horses so wearing appropriate clothes is important. When around the horses you will need to wear shoes which cover your toes and a helmet, which we will provide. We have a selection of shoes for you to change into upon arriving at SLTH, as well as coats and extra layers for rainy or cold weather. When doing certain activities, you will also need to wear gloves, and we have a range for you to borrow during your sessions.

 I have never been around horses before and I’m feeling worried, what should I do?

If you have never been around horses before, or feel anxious around them, the best thing you can do is to let our staff know how you’re feeling, as they will be able to work with you to find what you feel comfortable with. In your first session you will usually be introduced to a horse but there is no pressure to touch, or even get close to them if you don’t feel ready.

While interacting with the horses is part of what we do at SLTH, there are also lots of horse care activities which don’t involve touching. As you get to know our horses and their personalities, you may begin to feel more confident to get closer over time, but the staff are here to support you with what you need each week.

What should I do if I don’t like the sessions?

The most important thing for us at SLTH is that your time here is as enjoyable as possible and so it’s really helpful if you let the staff know when there is something you’re not liking about the sessions. This way we can hear your thoughts and work with you to make changes which will make your time with us more enjoyable.