HORSE CAMP

Course Description

Hipocentrum Koryčany is a horse camp that has been operating since 1991 in the Czech Republic and has been organizing year-round events for children and families. The school trip will offer courses with high-quality training and a full-day programme. The programme is divided into blocks, and equestrian training includes not only riding but also preparing horses for riding, leading horses from pasture, caring for horses, feeding, watering horses, helping novice riders, horsemanship lessons, and vaulting lessons. There are also spaces for theory, a projector, a screen, areas for saddling, and bridles. The riders will also learn cowboy skills and horse breeding theory. In addition to horse riding, Hipocentrum Koryčany also offers horsemanship lessons to children starting in 2023. This is aimed at teaching children how to communicate with horses and control them gently by understanding their signals and timing their incentives. They also learn to think about what they are doing, calm themselves and the horse, and receive the energy of horses. 

On the first day, we pair the children and start with a tour of the stable where we discuss horses for about an hour. We then provide theoretical preparation and instructions on horse safety and handling for approximately 45 minutes. Afterward, we move on to cleaning and saddling, with instructors present to guide the children. Next, we provide the first riding lesson, dividing the children into groups based on their performance and switching pairs. We break for lunch, and during this time, the children can rest and learn more about horse riding theory. In the afternoon, we proceed with training in the saddle. 

On days 2 through 5, we start with morning cleaning, saddling, and training in the saddle. After lunch, we provide theoretical instruction. In the afternoon, we provide another riding lesson. Once the children have learned to control the horse independently, stop, and ideally sit at a trot, we take them out into the field.

Learning Goals

Teaching children about horsemanship: The program aims to introduce children to the world of horses and teach them about the proper handling and care of horses. 

Developing riding skills: The program provides children with the opportunity to learn and improve their riding skills in a structured and supervised environment. The children are divided into groups according to their performance, which allows instructors to provide tailored instruction to each child. 

Building confidence and independence: As the children progress in their riding skills, they will gain more confidence and independence. They will learn how to control the horse independently and stop, ideally sitting at a trot. 

Learning responsibility: Through the programme, children will also learn about the responsibility that comes with caring for a horse. They will be involved in cleaning and saddling the horses, which will teach them the importance of taking care of their equipment and the animals. 

Enjoying outdoor activities: The program provides children with the opportunity to enjoy outdoor activities and appreciate nature while learning about horses.

ISP Mission Links

The programme described above aligns well with the mission of ISP to inspire, engage, and empower all learners to be curious, competent, compassionate changemakers. By exposing children to the world of horse riding and care, the programme inspires curiosity and an appreciation for the natural world. Through hands-on activities like cleaning, saddling, and training, children learn to be competent in caring for and riding horses. Additionally, the programme fosters compassion by teaching children to be responsible for the welfare of their horses and by providing opportunities for them to connect with these animals on a deeper level. The goal of empowering children to be changemakers is achieved through instilling confidence, independence, and problem-solving skills as they learn to ride and work with their horses.