The equestrian trial on 28^th April 2023 was exciting and successful. The students and staff who participated recommend this ASA as a definite starter from September 2023. Full details will be announced later.

Find below the reflections of the students who took part in the trial.

When I first visited, I was scared because I thought they would be aggressive and throw me off them, but this experience has proved me wrong. I learnt how to control the horse and turn it in different directions. Approaching the horses was a struggle for me because I was scared. I overcame this by tuning the negativity out of my mind and gaining the courage to go to them, and I am so glad I did. Next time, I will ride the horse first instead of waiting. Adjusting to situations was a skill that came in handy. My takeaway from this experience is that you should try new things. Controlling the horse for the first time was my unforgettable moment. – Samantha Arthur (Grade 9)

I experienced a sense of “freedom” while sitting atop a horse’s back. I noticed that horses are calm, but they tend to get angry when they are around chickens. I learnt more about riding and controlling horses. I’ll try to be more comfortable with the horse next time. The skill of self-balancing came in handy. Since it had been ten years since I last rode a horse, this was a first for me. I was afraid then, but I’ve since overcome my fear. With my horse, I had a very laid-back attitude. After I touched and rode a horse, it became my memorable experience. I will join the Equestrian Sports as part of my ASA (after-school activities) from September to December. – Edwin Jonah (Grade 9)

Before horseback riding, I believed that horses were always comfortable with everything. It appeared that it was an uncomfortable situation for the younger horses. I learnt the fundamental way to control a horse’s movements. It is about the pressure applied to the head and underbelly of the horse. Once a person understands this system, they can control a horse at a steady pace. I was nervous about the horse’s height compared to mine. I’d apply more force to my kicks to make the horse move in that direction next time. I realised that everything requires care and patience after I realised that my patience with the horse seemed unfocused. One of the other participants jumped onto a horse and began screaming out of fear. At the time, it wasn’t amusing, but once it was all over, we all laughed about it, and this was a priceless experience. Felix Osei–Amoako (Grade 11)

I learnt how to control a horse. I acquired the fundamental skills to stop and turn a horse left or right. Getting onto the horse was challenging because the saddle was not well positioned, but I was successful with my willpower. I was required to pay close attention to the instructor, so my listening abilities came in handy. An unforgettable moment was when the instructor commended me for effectively executing a left turn. I will join the Equestrian Sports as part of my ASA. – Fernanda Kofigah (Grade 9)