Horse riding has many benefits for children and adults with disabilities; socially, physically, intellectually and emotionally. Here at Arundel Park we offer a variety of programs to allow each and every rider the opportunity to grow and develop to the best of their ability.
RDA Riding Program
Rider Benefits
- Improved balance, posture, co-ordination, mobility and flexibility.
- Improved muscle development, strength, tone and overall fitness.
- Improved self-confidence, self-esteem and concentration through achievement and enjoyment. Improved social skills via interaction with volunteers, staff and peers.
- Emotional development through horse care and interaction.
- Speech development.
- Learn to follow directions and make choices’
Information
Our Riding programs run on a School term basis with all riders required to complete the necessary forms first;
- Application for Membership (Lesson Participant) Form
- APRDA Medical Consent Form (Section C of this form is to be completed by the riders regular GP)
A weight limit of 75kg applies to all our riders at APRDA. If this limit excludes a potential rider we offer a Ground Skills Program that will support them in learning other horse related skills.
Once these forms are completed and returned to our office an appointment will be made for the Rider and Parent/Carer with the Coach to provide an Individual Needs Assessment. This helps the coaches to identify support needs, implement goal plans then allocate suitable class and horse for the Rider.
All riders have an annual individual personalized plan with goal plans provided for each term to help encourage skill development.
Groups are mostly ability based with three to six riders in each class. If you have a group that want to ride together in a group lesson that can be arranged provided we have a time slot available. We also have provided helmets and boots for riders to use.
One Hour Group Lessons are available Tuesday to Friday each day. (Our times can be subject to change)
Saturday (Saturdays are very popular and we currently have a wait list)
Saturday (Saturdays are very popular and we currently have a wait list)
High Support Riders
High Support sessions are designed for riders with key goals either on a physical or emotional level. These classes run for half an hour with one on one instruction from a qualified coach, as well as specialised support from trained volunteers.
The one on one approach promotes riders to have improved focus, better communication and engagement, and allows for specialised activities to further develop physical or emotional attributes specific to each rider.
Half Hour High Needs Support Program is available for riders identified as needing more specialized support or those riders requiring support before transitioning into a group lesson.
Monday 9am-5pm (INSteP) various times on this day.