The Newmarket Pony Academy

antisocial behaviour, truancy and low self-esteem.

▶ Physical disabilities such as visual and hearing impairments, cerebral palsy and wheelchair users.

▶ Being young carers

▶ Victim of bullying or abuse

▶ Lack of engagement in school

▶ Likelihood of engaging in antisocial behaviour/crime

▶ Are in care/under child protection arrangements

▶ Have suffered a bereavement or other childhood trauma.

Our Academy is the only one of its kind in the UK. Many horse and pony clubs across the country provide after-school clubs and riding lessons at a cost to children and their parents and carers. Ours runs all-year round, during term-time, summer holidays and after school and is free for children and for the schools who we partner with. It is specifically designed to support disadvantaged children who would otherwise not have the opportunity to work with, and learn about horses and ponies. Many of the children who attend the Academy have a passion for horses but cannot afford to act on this passion. They may present with additional barriers, difficulties and challenges in their lives such as:

▶ Learning disabilities or language and communication difficulties such as ADHD, Autism, Asperger’s Syndrome, speech disorders, dyslexia and dyspraxia

▶ Social, emotional and mental health needs such as anxiety, depression, selfharm, eating disorders, disruptive or

“Thank you so much for my week at the Pony Academy. I had such a fantastic time I didn’t want the week to end. You were all amazing in helping me overcome my fears and give me confidence. I loved looking after the ponies, they were adorable and I never thought I would ever get to ride one. You have made my dreams come true!”

MARIA

What also makes us unique is our community partnerships. We are embedded in our local community, working hand-in-hand with a variety of other organisations to ensure we are supporting those most in need. These include: nineteen local primary schools, East Anglia Children’s Hospice, Make a Change, Blue Smile, West Suffolk Council, racing industry representatives and a variety of local businesses.

The aim of the Academy is to improve young people’s mental health by using the study and care of ponies to increase their confidence, resilience, engagement and social skills. This opportunity is lifechanging for those who take part. Being part of The British Racing School means there are various positive pathways for children to continue their passion with horses such as holiday clubs, Flexible Learning Programme, Foundation Courses and volunteering.

“I would like to say a massive thank you to all the staff, volunteers and funders of The Newmarket Pony Academy. The children have enjoyed their time at this amazing facility and are taking away with them confidence, a wealth of knowledge and many happy memories. You have been truly amazing. Please know that you have created opportunities for many children that would never in a million years have been able to have the wonderful experience they had this week. YOU HAVE MADE THE DIFFERENCE – THANK YOU!”

Lisa Yeardsley, Teacher at Fordham Primary School