It is our aim to ensure that all children and young people make a transition to a positive destination by the time they are ready to leave Ride High.
Part way through their membership at Ride High we start to prepare the children for their next step. We do this by providing them with one to one support, educational visits and volunteering opportunities with the aim of broadening their horizons and raising their aspirations. For our older children we organise work experience placements with our Corporate Partners.
For our older members work experience placements help to develop their communication skills and confidence and help them to think about what they may like to do in the future.
Imi joined Ride High in 2019 when she was just 12 years old. At the time, school had become an increasingly difficult place for her. She struggled with autism and dyslexia, and bullying from her peers made school an unhappy place. The thought of attending school triggered her anxiety, even leading to panic attacks. It was Imi’s teacher, Miss Cass, who suggested that joining a programme at Ride High may help her cope with these challenges. Initially, Imi was hesitant. The idea of going to a new place and meeting unfamiliar people was overwhelming, but with encouragement from her Mum, she agreed to give it a try. Ride High was Imi’s first experience with horses, so it wasn’t surprising that she needed some extra encouragement from her club leader to get involved.
She vividly remembers her first ride on a horse named Gunner. “I remember how hard it was for me to get up onto Gunner, but once I was on, all my worries disappeared. I forgot how nervous I was about being in a new place. I felt relaxed and at home." From that moment on, Gunner became Imi’s first friend at Ride High. "I always felt so calm when I was with him. One of my favourite memories is feeding him an apple, and afterward, he rested his nose in my hand. Knowing I would see him each week became the highlight of my week, and Ride High became an escape from the stress of school." During her time at Ride High, Imi also participated in the Stubbs Gallery project, even appearing on television for an interview! “I was so proud of myself. Before Ride High, I would have never imagined doing something like that. I left Ride High feeling happier and more confident than I ever had before."
After a year at Ride High, Imi went on to complete her GCSEs. However, her love for horses stayed with her, and at the start of this year she returned to Ride High to begin an apprenticeship in Equine Care. “I love my job! Being around horses and seeing Gunner every day is a dream come true. I’ve also bonded with the team and, thanks to everything I learned at Ride High, I’ve made lots of new friends." Now, Imi not only works with horses but also helps the children currently on the Ride High programme. "I know exactly how they feel because I was once in their shoes. It’s important to me to make sure they’re okay and help them along their journey. In the future, I’d love to teach children to ride, especially those with additional needs. I love seeing them bond with the horses, just like I did with Gunner all those years ago."
Recently, Imi and her mum, Claire, spoke at our Charity Golf Day and shared how much Ride High has positively impacted both of their lives. We are so proud of how far Imi has come and we love that Ride High remains to be her safe place to this day.
Like many teenagers, Andy’s mental health began to decline during COVID, meaning 2 years later when it was time to take her GCSEs she really struggled. Her school attendance was low at 27% and despite seeing therapists, Andy still battled with her mental health. After being referred to Ride High by CAHMS, and spending 5 months on the waiting list, she secured a place on a 12-week programme. From the moment Andy stepped onto the yard she fell in love with Smartie. Whispering in his ear and sharing her problems with him made everything feel better. Over the 12 weeks, spending time with the team, riding Smartie and bonding with other group members made Andy see the brighter side of life and her sessions at Ride High gave her something to look forward to. Andy grew into a confident, vibrant member of the group, a contrast to the Andy who started the programme.
Since leaving Ride High Andy has continued to grow. She is now studying at equine college and is looking forward to all the opportunities the future holds. Andy regularly volunteers at Ride High, spending time looking after the horses, alongside helping children who are now on the same programme she previously completed herself.
In January 2024, Andy spoke at the annual Ride High fundraising ball and bravely shared her story to a room of 220 people, resulting in a well-deserved standing ovation. Her strength and determination to make a change is admirable and an inspiration to young people. We look forward to continuing to see Andy flourish and following her passion working with horses.
