FESTINA Lente will host a practical continuing professional development day, exploring how equine movement, rider positioning and teamwork influence the experience of therapeutic riding participants.

Beyond Forward Facing: Movement in Therapeutic Horsemanship takes place at the centre in Bray on Monday, November 16th, from 10.30am to 3.30pm, with registration opening at 10am.

Facilitated by paediatric occupational therapist Audrey Darby, the event is aimed at therapeutic riding coaches and occupational therapists. It will combine discussion, practical exercises, demonstrations and optional mounted experiences. Participants will explore forward-facing and backward-facing positioning, the effects of different supports and equipment, and how the horse leader’s pace and rhythm can influence movement.

“The horse’s movement is central to all mounted Equine Assisted Services, and small changes in positioning, support and how we lead can influence how the rider processes and responds to that movement, supporting regulation and postural control,” Darby said.

Barrel-based exercises will examine pelvic alignment, balance and support before participants observe the relationship between horse, leader and rider. An afternoon workshop will offer opportunities to experience and discuss movement from different perspectives.

The programme will also consider when additional activities are useful and when allowing a rider more time to experience the horse’s movement may be appropriate. Mounted participation is optional and subject to individual suitability, horse welfare and safety considerations. Organisers emphasise that all activities will remain within practitioners’ existing competencies and professional scope. Dr Jill Carey, Festina Lente’s chief executive, highlighted the importance of connecting human needs with equine welfare.

“At Festina Lente, we believe that effective therapeutic interventions must be grounded in a sound understanding of both human needs and equine behaviour and welfare,” she said.

The day concludes with reflection, questions and CPD sign-off, giving participants time to consider practical applications.

Tickets are available through Eventbrite. For further information, email trainingadmin@festinalente.ie.