🐴 Frequently Asked Questions

Everything you need to know before visiting Reins of Change. 💜

🏇 Do you offer riding lessons?

No. Reins of Change is a non-ridden Pony Club Linked Centre, so we do not offer riding lessons or pony rides.

Our sessions focus on everything children can enjoy and learn from ponies without needing to ride. This includes caring for ponies, understanding their behaviour, building confidence and developing practical skills through calm, hands-on experiences.

🧹 What happens during a session?

Every session is a little different! Depending on the children’s ages, experience and the theme of the activity, sessions may include:

• Meeting and grooming the ponies

• Learning how to approach and handle ponies safely

• Leading and practical pony-care activities

• Stable and yard management

• Feeding, equipment and pony health

• Pony Club badges and Reins of Change certificates

• Games, quizzes and creative activities

🌟 Does my child need experience with ponies?

Not at all. Complete beginners are very welcome.

We explain everything clearly and help each child participate at a level that feels comfortable for them.

💜 What if my child is nervous around ponies?

That is absolutely fine. Children are never pressured to do anything they are uncomfortable with.

They can begin by watching or meeting a quiet pony from a comfortable distance before gradually becoming more involved. We take everything at the child’s own pace.

🎂 What ages do you cater for?

Children attending our group sessions must be at least four years old.

We may be able to offer younger children a shorter, one-off private session, depending on availability and their individual needs. Please contact us to discuss what would be most suitable.

🐴 Does my child need to be a Pony Club member?

Not for every activity.

Some events, holiday activities and one-off sessions are open to non-members. Our regular weekly sessions are for Pony Club members.

Each activity’s booking information will clearly explain who can attend.

🏅 Can non-members receive Pony Club badges?

Official Pony Club badges can only be awarded to eligible Pony Club members.

Non-members may receive a Reins of Change certificate recognising what they have learned or achieved during their session.

🥾 What should my child wear?

Children should wear comfortable outdoor clothing and sturdy, fully enclosed footwear, such as walking boots or yard boots.

Trainers, sandals and open-toed shoes are not suitable.

Please dress for the weather and remember that clothes may become muddy or covered in pony hair!

🌧️ Do sessions continue in bad weather?

Yes, wherever possible.

We have a large indoor space where most activities can continue safely and comfortably when the weather is poor.

In extreme weather, we may need to reschedule a session for everyone’s safety. We will contact you if this is necessary.

👨‍👩‍👧 Can parents stay during the session?

Yes. Parents and carers are more than welcome to stay and watch if they would like to.

🌈 Can you support children with additional needs?

We aim to make our sessions as welcoming and accessible as possible.

Please tell us about any additional needs, medical conditions, allergies or adjustments when booking so that we can discuss how best to support your child.

🥪 Does my child need to bring food and drinks?

For longer activities, children should bring their own packed lunch, drinks and any snacks they may need.

The individual event information will confirm exactly what to bring.

📅 How do I book?

Available activities are advertised through our website and booking system.

Some activities use an approve-then-pay process. Your child’s place is only secured once the booking has been approved and any required advance payment has been received.

🐎 Can I arrange a private or one-off session?

Depending on availability, we may be able to offer private or one-off non-ridden pony-care sessions.

Please contact us with your child’s age, previous experience and what you would like them to gain from the session. We can then discuss the most suitable option.

💜 Reins of Change
Changing lives, one rein at a time.