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About Us
Rooted in the internationally recognised Think Like a Pony methodology, our centre offers an ethical, relationship-based alternative to traditional riding schools. Our teachings focus on empowering young people, compassionate leadership and high standards of pony welfare.
Think Like a Pony Southwest is led by Sophie Hildreth, Lead Outreach Instructor for Think Like a Pony. Sophie trained at the organisation headquarters in Yorkshire under the guidance of founder Lynn Henry and helped to grow Think Like a Pony into a globally recognised programme through the Online Club and its thriving children's flagship centre. With over 17 years of experience, Sophie has now relocated to the Southwest to expand the reach of this award-winning programme.
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Our Mission
Our mission is to bring the award-winning Think Like a Pony approach to the Southwest and beyond – inspiring, educating and creating lasting change one pony, one child and one relationship at a time.
We empower children to become calm, confident leaders for their ponies by developing emotional resilience, empathy, and a deep understanding of ethical horsemanship and animal welfare. Through relationship-based learning, children not only gain horsemanship skills but also grow into more grounded, self-aware, and capable individuals.
Think Like a Pony Southwest is the first regional centre licensed to deliver this nationally recognised methodology outside of the Leeds flagship centre. As part of the Think Like a Pony national programme, we provide a vital pathway for expanding this unique and life-changing approach across the UK.
real impact
"We’re so excited that Think Like a Pony has come to the South West. In just a few sessions, both my child and I have learned so much. It’s such a unique approach, more intuitive and educational than anything we’ve tried before. Our child’s confidence has grown, they’re achieving goals they never thought possible, and the bond they’re building with their pony is wonderful to see."
Riding School Parent
Supporting young people with Special Educational Needs, mental health challenges, low confidence, social anxiety, or experiences of bereavement and trauma through the healing power of horsemanship.
Supporting young people with Special Educational Needs, mental health challenges, low confidence, social anxiety, or experiences of bereavement and trauma through the healing power of horsemanship.
Bespoke one-to-one or small group sessions for children, families and adults. Troubleshoot training challenges, strengthen your bond, and build confidence with your horse through personalised sessions.
Our Work
in the South West
Shaping the Future of Horsemanship,
One Connection at a Time
Immersive horsemanship camps that combine fun, learning, and connection, giving children the chance to deepen their skills, make friends, and create lifelong memories.
An ethical, relationship-based alternative to traditional riding schools, where children learn to ride in harmony with their pony while building trust, empathy, and confidence.
Shaping the Future of Horsemanship,
One Connection at a Time
Our Work
in the South West
A specialist training service where owners send their horses to the centre for a period of training — ideal for young horses or those with training and behavioural challenges. We focus on building confidence, respect and trust through holistic care that supports mental, emotional and physical balance.
An ethical, relationship-based alternative to traditional riding schools, where children learn to ride in harmony with their pony while building trust, empathy, and confidence.
Our rehab and rehoming programme supports rescue horses and horses with behavioural issues, helping them to recover and thrive, guiding them towards trusted, loving families and a fresh start.
We Need
Your Support
Some horses arrive with issues so severe they face the heartbreaking prospect of being put down. We rehabilitate them through the Think Like a Pony approach, providing holistic care and training to help them heal, regain confidence, and flourish again. Many stay with us for months or even years, which is costly but deeply rewarding.
We rely on your support to continue this vital work and give these horses and ponies the second chance they deserve.