A new Alternative Education Provision (AEP) has launched at Ride High Equestrian Centre in Milton Keynes, offering young people with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND) a unique opportunity to learn and grow through the therapeutic power of horses.
Aim High UK provides an inclusive and supportive environment for learners aged 14 to 25 who have an Education, Health and Care Plan (EHCP) and may struggle in traditional education settings due to SEND, social, emotional or mental health needs, or other challenges.
Based at the equestrian centre – also home to the Ride High children’s charity – Aim High combines practical equine-based learning with academic development, helping students build confidence, resilience and employable skills.
Developed in collaboration with Haddon Training, a leading provider of equine and animal care education, the programme enables students to work towards Level 1 and 2 Work-Based Horse Care qualifications, alongside Functional Skills in Maths and English for those who require additional academic support.
Students with EHCPs can enrol on a one-or two-year full-time course, attending three days a week during a 36-week academic year. Assessment is flexible and portfolio-based, allowing learners to evidence their progress creatively through photographs, videos and written work rather than formal exams.
Frances Murray, Manager of the AEP, said: “Our aim is to provide students with the opportunity to learn in a supportive and effective environment, in a way that suits them best. For those who need a little extra support, we want to help them gain qualifications and practical experience – but just as importantly, to develop the life skills that will help them thrive and confidently navigate their futures.”
Open Days will be held on November 13 and 25 and December 9 from 2pm to 4pm and on December 22 from 10am to midday.
Teeing off for a great day
The Ride High Charity Golf Day at the prestigious Woburn Golf Club in October was a spectacular celebration of golf, camaraderie and generosity. Eighteen teams took to the stunning Duke’s Course for a day full of excitement, competition and fun.
The event featured a special Q&A with pro coach Dan Grieve, who inspired attendees with insights and stories from the world of golf. On-course energy was high with new games, including Beat the Pro challenges and a lively putting competition, keeping players engaged at every hole.
Thanks to the generosity of participants and supporters, the day raised enough to fund 10 new children to join Ride High in January – a remarkable achievement that will make a lasting difference.
The success of the day was made possible by the support of sponsors Avery Healthcare, Geoffrey Leaver, Able Plumbing, Brian Currie and Leda, and the team at Woburn Golf Club, who hosted the event so beautifully.
With such a fantastic turnout, anticipation is already building for next year’s Charity Golf Day, with a date for 2026 to be announced soon.
For more information about Aim High visit their website. To learn more about next year’s Golf Day and other events, go to their events page.
