A fantastic riding picnic was the order of the day as an end of year treat organised by Mrs Eve Pattinson.  ‘Eve’ and her riding volunteers are great friends of North Lakes School.   They provide a wonderful riding experience for the children on a Thursday afternoon.

Leading the ‘RDA’ for many years Eve has initially ran the riding from her home in Calthewaite. On moving she has organised premises, finding volunteers for each Thursday to lead the horses and escort the riders. In addition Eve has transported the horses. She has to find horses who have just the right temperaments for the RDA sessions.

The children learn many skills on riding the horses and build up an attachment to their own horse. It has been known for them to speak their first words on a horse. The children can often ride and instruct their horses and learn horse management.  It provides fantastic physical exercise with the children having to sit upright on the horse. They are encouraged to independently mount and dismount.

We know that it also provides an intense sensory experience and the positive effect permeates the whole body and is so good for emotional being.  A massive thank you to Eve and her volunteers who work relentlessly for RDA. They are just amazing and we value all that they do.  After completing their ride the children finished this special session at the Ice Cream farm and enjoyed a play on the playground.

Thanks everyone!!  You are just awesome!!!