Participants - Under Development

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Rider Award Scheme

Most riders participate in the RDA rider award scheme that is adjusted to suit the rider’s ability and aspirations.

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Activities to suit all abilities

Some riders have been at Thornton Rose for many years and are able to ride independently.

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Activities for non-riders

Some participants do not want to ride immediately or at all. Other activities in the group are just as much fun!

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National Competitions

Thornton Rose has achieved great results in competitions both in the yard and elsewhere in Scotland.

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Having fun schooling

Experianced riders gain confidance schooling ponies.

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How much help will I get?

Participants will be provided with help according to thier abilities and needs. Our volunteers and coaches are there to will make sure everyone is comfortable and safe with the horses.

Parents and Carers

Each session is around 30 – 45 minutes in length depending on the participant. We ask that parents and carers stay on the yard during the session. Most parents and carers take this as an opportunity to catch up with others and this can be valuable time out. Parents and carers are welcome to come out with a ride or watch for the first few weeks if this will help the participants settle.

FAQ

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Is there a waiting list?

Yes, we have a waiting list but since we match participants to particular horses we are unable to tell you how long the waiting list is. For some it will be short, for others it may be several years. Sorry!

Are you the only RDA in the area?

Yes, Thornton Rose RDA is the only RDA in Midlothian but we do cater for participants from around the Lothians.

What time are the rides?

We operate up to three rides every Wednesday and Saturday. The session start times are 10.30am, 11.30am and 12.15pm. Each session will last 30-45 minutes.

How early do I have to arrive?

We like all participants to be there 10 minutes before their session.

What should I wear?

We have a range of riding hats available to borrow for sessions depending on the needs of the participant. You do not need any special clothing of your own, however, participants should wear trousers or jogging bottoms and flat, supportive shoes with a heel- such as boots or wellies, and any other weather-appropriate clothing they would normally wear to be outdoors. For example, a top with sleeves, jacket or anorak if it is cool or raining.

Which horse will I be with?

We have five horses and your horse will be chosen for the participant by the coaches. This may change session to session for a number of reasons, such as the needs of the participant and needing to rest our ponies.

Who will help me?

Each participant will have a team of volunteers with once they arrive as well as one of our coaches or trainee coaches leading a session. The size of each team will depend on the needs of the participant.

Is it still on during the school holidays?

We operate during Midlothian school term dates however we do operate some sessions during school holidays. The coaching team will be able to inform you of any changes in our schedule. We may cancel sessions if bad weather makes it unsafe to operate or if we do not have enough volunteers or a coach to run safely.

Registered as a Scottish Charitable Incorporated Organisation (SCIO). The SCIO was incorporated on the 10 July 2013 as a result of a Change to SCIO application by Thornton Rose RDA SC028617, which was an Unincorporated Association registered as a charity since 28 October 1998.
Thornton Rose, Riding for the Disabled Thornton Farm, Rosewell, Midlothian EH24 9EF | enquiries@thornton-rose-rda.org.uk