The RAC Saddle Club, a riding and BHS centre in Bovington, Dorset, was honoured to be picked to host a Lead-Up Youth Leadership Programme last week with BHS President Martin Clunes in attendance.
The holistic programme strives to bridge the gap between marginalised communities and the rest of society helping young people to become assertive, empowered yet peaceful leaders who are better prepared to break the cycles of inequality, injustice, violence and poverty that continue to hold them back.
10 children, facing a variety of challenges, aged 12-16, from Wey Valley Academy, The Swanage School and Harbour School Dorset attended the programme which used natural horsemanship and a round pen to help the children connect with horses.
“We are lucky enough to have our own round pen and used 10 of our incredible horses which helped the children to slow down their over-active minds to really listen to the horses. All the young people grew in confidence and became calmer,” said Steph Buchanan, Yard Manager of the RAC Saddle Club.
The programme was run by Katie Cunningham, Founder of Lead Up International – Guatemala and Lead Up Trainer and Facilitator Claire Connaghan. Based in Ireland, and organised by BHS chief executive James Hick, CLTH Head Alison Blackmore, and CLTH business support manager Steph Geran.