Rag Tree Equine Assisted Learning 3.7

Rag Tree is Denis O'Connor and Shelly Berry. The journey to starting Rag Tree began when Shelly having graduated with a BSc (Hons.) Equine Studies went on to research ways to promote health through interactions with horses. Denis who works in the Community and Voluntary sector for over ten years at the time embraced the idea and work on Rag Tree began. We began to offer sessions in 2011 having completed additional training specifically in EAL and Therapeutic Horse Riding.

At Rag Tree we offer two services Equine Assisted Learning (EAL) and Therapeutic Horse Riding. Equine Assisted Learning combines therapeutic interventions with a more innovative component involving relationships and activities with a horse. It is generally ground based. We see the focus as learning from the horse not about the horse. Therapeutic Horse Riding is beneficial for those who present with any of a wide range of cognitive, physical and emotional conditions.

Up to this point we have worked with a variety of groups including at risk youth and young people deemed to have fewer opportunities (socio economic disadvantage, family breakdown, risk of early school leaving etc) ASD and people with a variety of disabilities. This summer saw a change of direction with the introduction of our therapeutic horse riding service.

We feel our location is key of the success of the work we do. We are located well off the road in a beautiful secluded spot offering sea views and privacy. Generally only those booked in for sessions are present in the yard along with facilitators. We have invested considerable time to create an environment that optimises learning and benefits participants.