Amy Roydhouse (right) leads Woodford House equestrian team as an instructor. PHOTO/FILE
Amy Roydhouse (right) leads Woodford House equestrian team as an instructor. PHOTO/FILE
Woodford House has announced the launch of Hawke's Bay's only specialised equestrian academy for intermediate and secondary school pupils.
The state-integrated school in Havelock North has partnered with grand prix show jumper Amy Roydhouse to provide girls in years 7-13 with an academy that encourages self-belief and individual excellence intheir chosen discipline.
As part of the academy, which is called Woodford Equestrian, girls will keep their ponies at facilities close to the school, providing them with an opportunity to ride every day.
Roydhouse, an NZQA accredited assessor, says the academy will focus on developing respectful, empathetic and confident riders who work well alongside others in all aspects of life.
"Riding is a special partnership between horse and rider," Roydhouse said.
"Through our personalised programmes, girls will develop skills they can use in their academic studies, cultural pursuits, leadership roles and other sporting commitments."
Riders will receive programmes catered to their riding goals, professional coaching, health and fitness training and support in competitions and events. They will also attend a series of workshops and seminars.
Deputy principal and head of equestrian Catherine Bentley says the idea came about a year ago after watching Roydhouse train her daughter, Niamh Bentley.
"I noticed she was the master of capturing that 'teachable moment', the moment where learning was ripe," Bentley says. "This usually happens when a student encounters difficulty or is trying a new way of doing things."
Roydhouse, she says, has the ability to capitalise on that moment, scaffolding the learning so the pupil not only experiences success but has an understanding of the learning that has taken place. She enables the rider to reach beyond their potential."
Bentley said it was an exciting development for the school and for the region.
"We are really proud to be the only school in Hawke's Bay to offer this specialised academy and our girls and their parents are excited about the opportunities that will surface."
