Equine Assisted Learning (EAL)

Equine Assisted Learning (EAL) is an experiential approach to learning that takes place through relationship with horses.

Through safe and supported experiences with horses, participants are invited to slow down, become present, and develop greater awareness of themselves, their relationships, and the world around them.

Horses have a unique ability to offer honest and immediate feedback. Through relationship with them, people can explore thoughts, feelings, sensations, behaviours, patterns, and ways of relating with curiosity and without judgement.

As awareness develops, opportunities for learning, understanding, connection, and choice can emerge.                                                                                                                                                                                                                
No riding or previous horse experience is required.
A horse with a white mane and a realistic mouth appears to be smiling, with its face close to the camera. The horse is seen from below through a wooden fence, with trees and a partly cloudy sky in the background.

Why horses?

Horses are highly social, sensitive, and aware animals that have evolved to pay close attention to their environment and the relationships around them.

As prey animals, horses naturally notice subtle changes in body language, energy, movement, and behaviour. Their responses are often immediate and honest, providing opportunities for people to become more aware of how they are showing up in the moment.

Unlike people, horses do not communicate through words. Instead, they rely on non-verbal communication, clear boundaries, trust, and relationship. Through interacting with horses, people can explore awareness, communication, emotional regulation, confidence, boundaries, and connection in a practical and experiential way.

Many people also find that spending time with horses and in nature provides a welcome opportunity to slow down, become present, and engage in learning away from the pressures and distractions of everyday life.


  • Children, Adolescents & Adults 
  • NDIS Participants
  • Neurologically diverse clients
  • Corporate Teams
  • Leaders and Managers
  • Organisations
  • Personal Development clients
  • School groups
  • So much more……

Who attends EAL?

  • Observation of horses
  • Meeting with horses at liberty
  • Lead-line experiences including touching,
  • grooming and leading.
  • Liberty leading (leading horses without a lead rope)
  • Led-mounted/riding
  • Creative activities with horses

What does it look like?

  • Improved social skills
  • Empathy and relationship skills
  • Distress tolerance
  • Confidence and self esteem
  • Stress reduction
  • Boundary setting
  • Promoting movement and activity
  • Meaningful connection
  • Proven scientific benefits of mindfulness
  • Increased attention
  • Problem solving skills
  • Connection with nature

Benefits of EAL

Individual Sessions $165

60 - 90 minute individual Equine Assisted Learning session

  • Sessions with the horses focused on the individuals needs and goals specific to them.

  • Please note: These sessions are claimable for self managed NDIS participants

Person gently touching the forehead of a brown and white horse.

Ready to Learn More?

If you're curious about Equine Assisted Learning and would like to explore whether it's the right fit for you, your child, or someone you support, I'd love to hear from you.

Let's have a conversation about your goals and how Equineistic NT may be able to support you.