Information for Parents

What is the Horse Power Programme?

Horse Power at Greatwood is a series of multi-sensory activities to help care for our rescued animals. The programme runs in school term time and referral is usually through your child's school.
We have sheep, goats, hens, geese, Shetland ponies and of course our thoroughbred racehorses who all need looking after.
Older students can register for our animal care course leading to a nationally recognised qualification which may be a good starting point when considering a career in working with animals.
Primary aged pupils are offered opportunities to meet and care for our animals and spend time exploring our woodlands and meadows, looking for mammals and insects, and making dens.
Our activities are planned to help children develop good team working skills and to boost confidence and levels of self esteem.
Some work is carried out in our classroom and children complete a diary to bring home and show you at the end of the programme.

What your child will need when coming to Greatwood?

Please ensure that your child wears old, comfortable clothing suitable for mucky jobs in the outdoors.
Wellingtons are great for wearing around the farm and of course don't forget a waterproof coat for cold, wet weather.

Your child's school will send you a permission slip which will need to be signed by you and returned to school before the programme starts.

The Cost

Due to the current financial climate, Greatwood, effective January 1st 2011, now charges a small fee for all pupils attending Horse Power. For more information regarding these fees, please call Melanie Gee on 01672 514535.
You could also consider becoming a “Friend of Greatwood” at a cost of £5 per month? Not only will this support Horse Power but it will enable us to continue our work rescuing vulnerable racehorses. As a “Friend” you will receive our quarterly newsletter and have an exclusive invitation to our “Friends Day” to tour the farm and meet the horses.