Ride High is delighted to announce that plans have been submitted for what could become Cheshire’s first equine assisted learning centre — and Ride High’s second UK site.
Working in partnership with Grosvenor’s Eaton Estate, the proposed development would transform disused buildings at Cotton Edmunds Farm in Waverton into a state-of-the-art equine assisted learning facility supporting vulnerable and disadvantaged children and young people from across the region.
Subject to planning approval, the site would include indoor and outdoor arenas, stables, paddocks, classrooms and office space, creating Ride High’s first centre in the north of England.
Since opening in Milton Keynes in 2009, Ride High has supported thousands of children and young people facing challenges including poverty, isolation and poor mental health. Through equine assisted learning, children are supported to build confidence, improve wellbeing and develop vital life skills.
Children and young people referred through schools, local authorities, the NHS and other agencies would attend the Cheshire centre weekly, where they would learn to ride and care for horses alongside taking part in educational programmes.
The proposed centre would support up to 120 children each week, with most transported to the site by minibus to minimise local traffic impact.
In addition to its charitable programmes, the facility would also provide a limited number of public riding lessons, supported learning opportunities, sensory programmes and holiday activities.
Olivia Sugdon, Chief Executive of Ride High, said:
“We’re delighted to partner with Grosvenor’s Eaton Estate to develop what will be Cheshire’s first equine assisted learning centre and our first in the north of England, subject to planning.
“We’ve been operating from our facility in Milton Keynes since 2010, delivering a measurable impact and improving the lives of thousands of children and young people. The proposed development provides the platform to grow our offering, providing greater support, at bespoke facilities in a beautiful setting.”
