Testimonials

Lauren (pictured), competed at the Special Olympics in Germany in 2023 and won one silver and two gold medals in dressage, equitation and trail riding. She first came to us at Church Farm as Covid lockdown was easing. Her dad said:

"You were the first place Lauren could attend since Covid and this did her wellbeing so much good. You helped her to create her entry videos for her Equine College course ... you have been such a help to Lauren, the combination of your kind, empathetic approach and equestrian coaching expertise has helped her at times when she most needed it."

Lauren was supported in her journey to the Special Olympics by the Riding for the Disabled Association, and we are so proud to be part of her journey.

Other feedback for Horse School and Church Farm:

"I enjoy seeing the students express themselves and progress with riding and learning about horse care. The students look relaxed and are able to be themselves. The staff build a good relationship with the students to enable this. Horse School allows our students to connect with the horses and feel comfortable and express themselves - they are better able to communicate their feelings and emotions around the horses." LSA, Oldfield School, Bristol.

"Horse School helps me at school ... working with horses helps me to feel calmer and it's really fun." Client, age 14, ASD.

"It's amazing and calming." Client, age 13, ADHD.

"I like to play games with the horses ... it helps me because it's very therapeutic." Client, age 14, ADHD.

"Eight months ago my son started back at Church Farm Equestrian and Pony Club Centre to attend Horse School. He doesn’t ride however absolutely loves his sessions, being around the yard, ponies & Kay in his own unique way. Thankyou xxx". This mum's son is Autistic and Downs' Syndrome.

"My son’s first ever riding lesson today and I totally recommend this place, the instructor was amazing and it's the first time I've seen my boy take part in anything and want to go back so soon, lovely place."

"My daughter started with Kay about 2 months ago and she loves her lesson. She does do riding at another school on top but with Kay she has said she feels the safest and always comes away saying I done more this week mum (she attends under RDA lessons) I am so happy we found Kay and think my daughter is too as she so happy when she leaves for school. We can not wait for many years of learning and fun."

"So glad we found Church Farm. My daughter adores going and so do I! Kay is beyond amazing with the pupils, she really wants them to learn and develop. I couldn’t ask for more. All the staff and helpers are super lovely and it’s a great place to just be around. We love Church farm and all the ponies!"

"Lovely friendly place, lovely ponies, and Kay is brilliant with my daughter. She loves her lessons and pony club. Would recommend!"

"Church farm is a fantastic place, people are lovely and the fellow riders are very friendly and supportive of one another. Kay is an exceptional teacher and brilliant with my daughter. There are always exciting things going on in the centre. The horses are very happy and are obviously well loved. My daughter feels she has a pony family and would sleep at the stables if she could!"