Think Like a Pony Leeds

Shaping the Future of Children’s Horsemanship Since 2009

The Three Pillars of Our Teaching 

Respect for Self

Respect for Others

Responsibility

About Us

We’re changing the way children and ponies learn together, proving that respectful and empathetic training is not only possible, it’s the most fun and rewarding way to ride and care for ponies.

Our award-winning, internationally recognised programme has already helped children all over the world discover something amazing: when you understand a pony, you can do incredible things together. Confidence grows, friendships blossom, and riding becomes a joyful partnership.

At Think Like a Pony, riding is about so much more than sitting in the saddle. It’s about learning to listen, communicate, and work as a team – skills that build empathy, patience, and courage that last a lifetime.

From our buzzing centres in Yorkshire and the Southwest to our global online Club, children and families are joining a new way of horsemanship – one where every lesson is packed with discovery, joy, and connection.

We make it possible for children (and adults too!) to see the world through a pony’s eyes, unlocking the magic of trust and respect. Together, we’re creating safe, supportive spaces where ponies and people thrive, grow, and make unforgettable memories.

Think Like a Pony is more than a programme – it’s a movement focussed around the extraordinary bond between a child and pony.

Youth Development Programme

Think Like a Pony’s Youth Development Programme goes beyond horsemanship. It’s a transformative journey that helps children facing emotional or behavioural challenges such as anxiety, trauma, or low self-esteem to build confidence, purpose, and connection through the powerful bond between child and pony. This in turn strengthens their relationships with themselves, their families, and their communities.

Holistic Riding
School

Our Riding School is a place where children and ponies learn, play, and grow together. Every lesson is centred on the wellbeing of mind, body, and spirit. Children explore horsemanship with empathy and confidence, guided by expert instructors and our uniquely trained ponies. This is a pioneering approach to children’s horsemanship within the riding school industry.

Family Development Programme

Our Empowered Parenting programme is a four-week course that equips parents and carers with practical strategies to respond calmly and effectively to the young people in their care, whilst creating rules and boundaries that bring family cohesion. This comes through learning how small shifts in mindset can transform everyday interactions, deepens bonds, eases challenges, and supports positive growth at home and beyond.

Volunteer
Programme

Think Like a Pony’s volunteer programme offers a unique chance for adults and young people aged 14+ to connect with ponies and people in a culture of respect and shared growth. Working alongside experienced staff, volunteers gain hands-on horsemanship skills, access to online resources, and the chance to earn progress badges. This builds confidence, deepens understanding, and allows them to contribute to life-changing experiences for children and ponies alike.



Online
Club

The Think Like a Pony Club is a vibrant online community for families passionate about horsemanship, offering interactive resources like video lessons, e-books, and assessments to support every level of rider. As children progress, they earn badges to recognise their achievements, receive encouraging feedback from instructors, and enjoy an inspiring, confidence-boosting learning journey.

Thank you. Thanks for helping me through some of my toughest times and helping my light shine. Thanks for pushing me when I most needed it and reassuring me. But most of all, thanks for helping me think like a pony.

Young Person