01
Riding & equine learning
Inclusive riding, horse care and stable management that build confidence, coordination, communication and responsibility.
More than a riding school
Advancing health
and wellbeing
through inclusive
equine activity.
Gartmore Riding School RDA is a trustee-led charity in Hammerwich, supporting people with disabilities and others facing barriers to participation through adaptive riding, equine learning and accessible physical, sensory and educational activity.
Our work in practice
A family’s experience of riding and caring for the ponies through the Holiday Activities and Food programme.
30+years supporting people with disabilities and families
2017Queen’s Award for Voluntary Service
RDA · BHS · ABRSlisted and accredited provision
5 starlicensed riding centre
What we do
Different ways to learn, move and take part.
Our work starts with the person. Some participants come to ride, others to care for the horses, learn outdoors, build routines or spend time in a setting where they feel understood.
02
Horse care & stable management
Non-riding activities that develop practical skills, movement, confidence and a sense of responsibility around the horses.
03
Woodland & sensory learning
Accessible paths, nature boards, sensory planting and calm spaces for nature education, reflection and regulation.
04
Classrooms & education
Practical learning with animals, nature and movement for schools, SEND groups, alternative provision and community partners.
Our site
One setting with room to learn in different ways.
Gartmore brings together covered and outdoor riding arenas, stables, classrooms, accessible paths, sensory spaces and a long-established woodland education trail.
Riding arenas and stables
All-weather riding, horse care, stable management and practical equine learning.
Classrooms and education
Flexible provision for schools, SEND groups, alternative education and community partners.
Woodland and sensory learning
Accessible paths, nature boards, sensory planting and quiet places for reflection and regulation.
Everyone has a place here.Who we support
A familiar rural setting with the right support close by.
Clear routines, experienced staff and volunteers, and accessible facilities help participants and families feel comfortable enough to try, learn and build confidence.
Our approach
Built with the people who use Gartmore.
Trusted expertise
Experienced staff and volunteers create supported opportunities through riding, horse care, movement and the outdoors.
More routes to take part
Non-riding activity and accessible outdoor learning provide more ways for people with different access needs to take part.
Designed with families
Facilities and programmes grow from feedback from people with disabilities, parents, carers, schools and health professionals.
Built to last
Reused modular buildings, solar infrastructure and local partnerships help each investment serve the community for longer.
Developing the site
Supporting more activity throughout the year.
The Movement Hub adds an accessible base for physical activity and play, with a sensory room, kitchen and support facilities. It sits within a wider plan to connect riding, classrooms, the sensory garden and woodland learning across the site.
Read about our funding prioritiesA clear welcome
Kind, familiar and accessible from the start.
Visual communication, familiar routines and person-centred support help visitors understand what to expect.
Work with Gartmore