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The students of Taoroa School wait for their turn to ride Goldie as part of their equine education on December 06, 2023 in Taihape, New Zealand. At the Taoroa School in Taihape, about 250km (150 miles) north of New Zealand's capital Wellington, a unique equine education program has been running as an experiment in teaching children about horses. The idea came about when Tui Gower, a resident, brought her ponies to school on pet day. The children loved it so much that principal Lara Stevens used a government well-being grant to fund a 12-month pilot program at the rural school, which has 34 students. The program has been so successful that it has become a part of the curriculum, with funding guaranteed for another year. Stevens says the time children spend with horses has helped with their attendance and given students something authentic - skills and learning also relevant at home. Children visit Gower twice a week to learn about horses, the relationship they have with people, their care and well-being, handling, nutrition, equipment and riding. The program also offers the practical benefit of children being able to use their learnings at home on the farm, helping parents muster cattle and sheep. Gower says horses have helped her throughout her life, and she hopes to pass on some of the benefits she has experienced. She says that children are taught by horses too, learning that every action has a reaction, among other important lessons. Working with horses has also been good for the mental health of handlers and riders. (Photo by Fiona Goodall/Getty Images)
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