We are the Cotswold Riding Opportunities Project
Welcome to Cotswold Riding Opportunies Project (CROP) Enriching lives through interaction with horses and other animals.
Saddle Club
From 6 years oldSaddle club runs from 4pm – 5pm every Friday term time, annual joining fee £35, the sessions are then free. We run a voluntary Lollipop Lottery at the end of each session to raise club funds – the lollies are £1, and if it has a coloured bottom you win a prize – anything from a bareback ride to the field, a pony based book/game/toy right up to the glitter prize of a whole day at the stables including riding!
This is non riding club aimed at teaching the basics of pony care in a fun, safe and outdoor environment. Saddle club is very much hands on, so the children have plenty of pony contact with safe practises instilled. It is an ideal introduction for all children, and is especially beneficial to less confident children. It gives them an opportunity to make new friends and enjoy plenty of fresh air while learning everything from what ponies eat to how to catch, lead and prepare a pony for riding. We also include ground games that teach balance and coordination to prepare or improve them for the saddle.
Download Saddle Club Application Form
My son has massively grown in confidence since he started Saddle Club. He has broadened his circle of friends from different schools and is always keen to tell me what he has done and learnt when I eventually manage to prise him away from the ponies! Mrs W - (Bourton-on-the-Water)
Young Equestrians
From 11 years oldYoung Equestrians provides opportunities for our teens to further develop existing skills or for a first time introduction to horses in an outdoor environment away from phones and iPads. Sessions include learning animal behaviour, lunging, plaiting, tacking up, visits from Equestrian Experts and trips to specialist yards. The Young Equestrian Club is also a good place to taste a career in horses with lots of advice and guidance available, as well as experiencing the amazing therapy horses bring and the social benefits of experiencing and learning together.
My daughter aged 12 has just completed the 6 week young equestrian course. She loved it, and so did her friends that attended. It was a fantastic opportunity to get to know and experience all aspects of caring for horses and riding in a safe and professional environment. Kids having fun and learning whilst outside in the fresh air. Brilliant, I can’t remember the last time she was that excited to go anywhere! Thank you to all involved. 100% recommended LL (Bourton-on-the-Water)
Gee Gees for Grown Ups
Adults meet upA monthly meet up to experience the peace and magic horses can bring. Whether you have never touched a horse before or are rekindling a past love of horses before life took over, we invite you to come and spend time with our gentle animals. Maybe you are new to the area? Feeling isolated now the kids have gone to school? Or just want some peace and quiet? The kettle is on, cake in the fridge and a horse is in a stable that would love to meet you. The club is free to attend, but we do ask you book in so we can make sure we have enough ponies in for you to meet (and enough cake!)
Frequently asked Questions
Youth Clubs with animals and therapeutic experiences for adults.
Do I need any special equipment?
No, we have safety equipment you can borrow, but old clothes you don’t mind getting dirty and wellies if you have them are advised.
Does it matter that I don't have any experience with horses?
Not at all, we will show you how to interact with them safely.
Can parents stay to help?
We prefer not, as the children learn independence and integrate better without parents. However experienced volunteers are always welcome. We invite parents to come to our Gee Gee’s for Grown ups though!
How do I sign up?
Just drop us an email and return the “saddle club joining form” so we have important details and know to expect you. Your first session is a £2 donation trial session, and if you want to join payment is due the following visit
Do I have to come to every session?
Not at all, you can dip in and out as you like.
Are there any clubs during the school holidays?
Not at the moment, however we are aiming to offer these in the future. The stables we run from do offer holiday clubs separately.
Are there any changing facilities?
Not specifically, but children coming straight from school use the top deck of the bus to change.
“Thank you to Saddle Club and their furry, hairy and feathery helpers. I drop off a tired slightly stress little boy every Friday, and collect a happy one ready for the weekend. Animal therapy at its best”
Support us through the Co-op Local Community Fund
Simply become a Co-op member and choose to give your 1% to CROP. Wherever you are in the UK you can choose us as your cause.Join a Club
We would love to welcome you to one of our clubs. Starting something new can be daunting especially for children. We can help ease any concerns and help you to have a great time, learn about horses and care for animals.Volunteering & Helping
Without our team of hard-working volunteers and fundraisers CROP wouldn't exist.Get in Touch
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