Posted: 29th October 2019 | Back to news feed
A Surrey riding school has become the latest equestrian establishment to apply for Accessibility Mark accreditation with the aim of encouraging more disabled people to take up horse riding.
Owner Rosie Langbridge recognised that demand for this service locally was much higher than availability and wanted to be able to help.
Accessibility Mark is a nationwide joint scheme between Riding for the Disabled Association (RDA) and the British Equestrian Federation to provide more riding opportunities for disabled people.
Said Rosie: “We were already teaching a number of disabled riders and although all of my instructors are fully qualified none of us had any formal training in teaching riders with additional needs.
“The compulsory training that is part of the requirement ahead of accreditation was fantastic, ensuring that we were using correct procedures. It was fun and educational, using roleplay to help us understand the challenges faced by disabled riders.”
The majority of their disabled clients have either autism or learning difficulties and their horses and ponies have been selected for their calm and quiet temperament.
Currently riders attend the centre from a number of residential homes and through several charities, something which Rosie hopes to expand further.
One of the major benefits of Accessibility mark accreditation is the on-going support from RDA. An ASO (Accessibility Support Officer) is available at any time to offer advice on individual lesson planning and specialist equipment that can enhance a riders experience for the better.
As a British Horse Society and Pony Club approved centre, Quarry Farm pride themselves on delivering five star coaching in a safe, clean and well-facilitated environment whilst maintaining a friendly feel.
Accessibility Mark status is awarded to a riding centre that has been approved by the RDA following training and assessment. The close link with the RDA means that it can offer continuous support to the establishment to ensure it provides a first-class experience that aims to be hugely beneficial to riders of varying levels of disability.
There are currently 54 Accessibility Mark-approved centres across the country.
For more information contact Quarry Farm Stables on 01342 836129 or visit https://www.quarryfarmstables.com
To find your nearest RDA Group or Accessibility Mark centre visit www.rda.org.uk
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