Arnie’s visit to InspireU Spalding
On 1 April, Spalding’s InspireU site were fortunate enough to receive a surprise visit from Arnie the miniature horse.
Arnie is the main ‘man’ of a small local business, Harmonious Hooves Events, who host equestrian themed events. Spalding’s PFA tutor owns and runs this business and agreed to bring Arnie for a visit.
Both Step and Stride learners spent the day with Arnie where they were taught the basics of how to look after a horse and how to interact with a horse. For many of the learners this was their first time with a horse, naturally they were very excited.
Learner’s groomed and petted Arnie, learnt to pick his hooves, walked Arnie in hand around the ample grounds of the site, kept his water topped up and created PowerPoints on basic ‘Arnie care’. The visit was a real hit, and the weather was especially kind to us which made the visit even more of a success.
The benefits of horses, as well as other animals, for SEND are vast in terms of providing emotional support, sensory integration, building of confidence and much more.
These benefits were evident on the day and Arnie, learners and staff alike, thoroughly enjoyed and reaped the benefits of the visit.