Enrol a Rider
Riders may be referred to New Plymouth RDA by teachers, doctors, therapists, caregivers, parents or by themselves. In all cases there is a defined process that must be followed prior to starting an an RDA program. Most importantly, the relevant medical background needs to be known for the safety of both the rider and the group and that appropriate rider goals are set.
If you would like to refer a rider you can contact our head coach, they will check whether the rider meets the criteria for attending RDA and if so will forward on the required forms to fill out. Once a rider has been referred they may have to be put on a waitlist.
Our sessions run for 30 minutes with classes Monday to Thursdays 9.15am -1.45pm during school terms. Riding fees are currently $100 per term.
Contact our Head Coach to get started at admin@newplymouthrda.org
What We Offer
The core purpose of RDA is to provide interaction with horses to develop increased ability, independence, and self-worth for children and adults with physical, intellectual, emotional, or social challenges. The number one goal of our group is to achieve rider outcomes by providing a life-changing experience.
New Plymouth RDA offers three main programs for our riders. They are Therapy, Education, and Sport and Recreation. These programs are intended and designed to complement other conventional therapies and education.
The programs we offer are of benefit to children and adults with a wide range of disabilities, included but not limited to;
Autistic Spectrum Disorders.
Cerebral Palsy, Cystic Fibrosis and CVA (Stroke)
Developmental Delay and Down Syndrome.
Intellectual and Learning Disabilities.
Hearing and Visual Impairments.
Multiple Sclerosis and Muscular Dystrophy.
Spina Bifida and Spinal Cord Injuries (Para/Incomplete Tetraplegia)
ADHD and other behavioral problems.
Anxiety, Depression, Bi-Polar and other mental health problems.
The riders individual goals will be determined and documented by the coach and therapists based on information from a medical specialist, school, parent, or caregiver. They also decide on the appropriate support team who will work with the rider and ensure the team understands the riders specific needs. At the end of each session notes are made for each rider to keep an important record of their progress. The riders goals are set at the beginning of their program and updated when required, once goals are achieved the rider may graduate from the RDA program and move on to further successes!
Learn more about each of the three programs by using the dropdown boxes below:
Therapy Program
Interaction with the horse and the effects of its movement on the human body have significant therapeutic benefits.
The rhythmic three dimensional movement and the warmth of the horse is transmitted to the riders body, stimulating nerves and strengthening muscles. This induces relaxation, suppleness and core stability, which can improve the riders balance, posture and co-ordination. In riders with spasticity, a normalization of muscle tone and improved function can also be seen.
The exercise increases mobility and endurance, prompting better overall health. Specific goals are designed for each individual rider by the coach and therapists.
Education Program
RDA activities have a strong learning element and riding skills learnt are transferable to many aspects of daily life. Riders engage in a variety of activities that focus on literacy, numeracy, or other key educational activities. Many successes can be gained through a well designed rider program.
Some things include;
Self management.
Recognize text and symbols through games and activities.
Communicate effectively with the volunteers and horse.
Follow instruction sand accept advice.
Relate to others.
Be part of a team through co-operation and competition.
Experience a working balance of rights, roles and responsibilities. This includes their own, the horses and the RDA team.
Contribute as an active member of their community.
Riders are provided the opportunities to develop knowledge, skills, attitudes and values that can lead them to becoming confident learners and community members.
Sport and Recreation Program
In addition to supporting the achievement of therapy and/or education goals, horse riding is a wonderful form of health outdoor activity and exercise for those who take part in a Recreation Riding Program. Graduating riders from this program may also go on to enroll in other forms of sport riding, this could be Special Olympics, Para Equestrian or other forms of competition.
On horseback a rider with a disability can be helped to overcome fear, gain confidence, and achieve success they may not be able to achieve elsewhere.