Equicollege is a trauma-aware, relationship-led education and engagement programme for young people aged 16–25 (with flexible entry from 14+), designed for those with EHCP/EOTAS or who are unable to access traditional education due to anxious experiences, trauma, neurodivergence or emotional-based school avoidance (EBSA). Delivered in a therapeutic equine environment, the programme combines academic development, emotional regulation and life readiness within a highly supportive and relational framework.

Students are supported through a blend of 1:1 and small group mentoring and structured group classroom learning. This approach enables each learner to work at their own pace while developing the confidence, communication skills, and relational capacity needed to participate in a collaborative learning environment. Group sessions promote a sense of belonging and shared experience, while individual sessions allow for tailored academic and emotional support.

Learners engage in project-based academic activities including functional literacy, research, debate, presenting and critical thinking. The curriculum is aligned with EHCP outcomes and the Preparing for Adulthood framework. Emotional and sensory regulation is supported through polyvagal-informed, body-based practices and regular interaction with horses.

As part of our commitment to broadening horizons and building aspirational pathways, learners also benefit from regular sessions with visiting industry professionals — such as veterinary physiotherapists, farriers, equine behaviourists and welfare specialists. Off-site visits to professional environments provide valuable real-world context and help learners make meaningful connections between their education and future opportunities.

Equicollege nurtures autonomy, builds academic and relational confidence, and helps learners prepare for further education, employment, or supported adulthood. Modules such as “Foundations of Self & Learning,” “Equine Behaviour,” and “Anatomy & Nervous System Awareness” enable students to make meaningful links between theory, self-awareness and personal growth. Progress is tracked through individual learning plans, reflective journals and internal portfolios with regular reviews and reports supporting long-term transition and success.