Our social organisers are always looking for new activities to make a really interesting social programme for ELC students – and yesterday we took a group of students for a horse riding lesson! It was the first time that it was on the programme, but it will certainly not be the last given the great experience that everyone had!

For many it was only the first or second time they had ever been on a horse but the lack of experience proved not to be important, as each student was assigned a horse to suit their size and build and also a member of staff to look after them the whole time.

With everyone having been assigned a horse and an instructor, we began with a lesson on how to properly mount and hold the reigns. After every one was sitting comfortably in their saddles we set off through the woodland area which surrounds the farm – all the while the experienced member of staff gave us many useful tips.

On the way through the woods we alternated between a walk and a trot (which is when they pick up the pace), which everyone found very enjoyable – and even a bit frightening for some.

On our return to the main training area we were taught how to steer our horses between different points, how to stop them and how to get them to begin trotting. With the help of the instructors we even attempted a small jump!

Regardless of experience everyone had a great time, however many found that their legs were a little worse for wear in the morning.

For more information on trying out some horse riding, visit Little Cophall Riding School website.