Teens at Laura Brennan Equestrian Centre, Halifax, are the latest to join Young Equestrians; the scheme designed to provide informal social and training opportunities around horses, for people aged 13-18.

In their inaugural session, the new group learnt how to safely load and travel horses, before gathering to discuss their aims for the coming weeks, including ideas for Show Jumping games and learning how to prepare for a show. They will then put their skills into practise by taking part in an in-hand show where they can take home a Young Equestrians rosette.

Fourteen year old Ella, who was one of the eleven participants who took part in the scheme’s launch, said:

“I like Young Equestrians because I usually ride with my younger sisters but this provides me with a group just for me and people my age.”

The Laura Brennan Young Equestrians will meet every Sunday and numbers are expected to grow in the New Year as the scheme gains in popularity; as well as taking part in activities at the Equestrian Centre, the group have been meeting to watch films together and are enjoying the company of new, like-minded friends.

Laura Brennan, Proprietor of Laura Brennan Equestrian Centre said:

“Young Equestrians adds creativity and gives participants freedom with lesson planning which is lovely to see. The sessions are tailored to them, and as they are the customers we are giving them what they want and keeping them engaged. The group are having fun and relaxing together, but they can also work towards competitions and tests if they wish to.”

Originally developed by Hoof, the British Equestrian Federation’s (BEF) participation programme, the Young Equestrians scheme is being delivered through The Pony Club and targets riding schools across England.

Thanks to Sport England funding, Young Equestrians will provide participants with more choice and freedom in how they take part in equestrianism, as well as providing a focus on skill development.

Riding schools who deliver the programme will be given access to virtual tools to help them establish their Young Equestrians club that include example session plans, marketing materials and a host of different ideas on how to retain teenagers in equestrian sport.

If you are a riding school or young person and want more information on how to get involved in the programme please visit www.youngequestrians.club.