From Stress to Strength: Equine Assisted Learning in Belfast and Northern Ireland

For many children today, stress and anxiety can feel overwhelming. Whether linked to school pressures, social challenges or additional needs, finding the right kind of support is crucial. One innovative approach making a real difference is equine assisted learning in Belfast and across Northern Ireland from Tobi and Peanut Therapy Ponies.

Kate, the founder of Tobi and Peanut Therapy Ponies, has dedicated her work to helping children build confidence, resilience and calmness through the power of ponies. Based in Banbridge but working right across Northern Ireland, she delivers programmes in schools as well as private sessions for families. Her aim is simple: to provide children with a safe, supportive and engaging way to develop skills for life.

Why ponies?

Equine assisted learning is based on the idea that animals, particularly horses and ponies, can help people develop emotional awareness, communication and coping strategies. Unlike a classroom setting, time spent with ponies creates a calm environment where children can connect, reflect and grow at their own pace.

Kate's therapy ponies are especially well-suited to this work. Their gentle nature and ability to respond to non-verbal cues mean that children quickly form a bond with them. For children experiencing stress or anxiety, the steady presence of a pony can provide reassurance, while activities such as grooming or leading the ponies encourage focus, patience and responsibility.

Support for schools and families

Kate’s work takes her into schools throughout Belfast and Northern Ireland, where she delivers structured equine assisted learning programmes. These sessions are tailored to support children who may struggle with confidence, concentration or emotional regulation. Teachers often notice positive changes – improved focus in class, better self-esteem, and stronger social skills – even after a short series of sessions.

Alongside school visits, Kate also offers private sessions for children who may need more individualised support. These sessions are particularly valuable for families seeking help for a child dealing with anxiety, stress or additional needs. For many parents, seeing their child relaxed and engaged with the Therapy Ponies is a turning point, offering a new way forward when traditional approaches may not have worked.

Building resilience through connection with Equine Assisted Learning in Belfast and across Northern Ireland

Equine assisted learning is not about riding or traditional horse-based activities. Instead, it focuses on interaction, observation and relationship-building. Through activities with Tobi and Peanut Therapy Ponies, children learn to set boundaries, manage their emotions and develop resilience. These are skills that transfer well beyond the paddock or schoolyard, helping them cope more effectively in everyday life.

Kate believes strongly in the long-term benefits of her work. “Children are under so much pressure,” she explains. “By creating a calm, positive space with the ponies, we give them tools to manage stress and to feel stronger in themselves. The changes we see can be small but incredibly powerful.”

A growing demand in Northern Ireland

As awareness of equine assisted learning grows, more schools and families in Belfast and across Northern Ireland are turning to programmes like Kate’s. What makes her approach unique is the blend of professional expertise with the special personalities of the equine ponies. Together, they create an environment where children can flourish, often surprising parents and teachers with their progress.

From stress to strength, equine assisted learning offers children a chance to rediscover their confidence and capabilities. And thanks to the ponies and Kate’s dedication, that opportunity is now available to families and schools throughout Northern Ireland.

Interested? Then contact Kate today. She will repsond back within 24 hours to your message.

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From Stress to Strength: Equine Assisted Learning in Belfast and Northern Ireland | Tobi and Peanut Therapy Ponies 2025