Columbia Valley Pioneer staff

Excitement is building around a proposed equestrian academy for students at David Thompson Secondary School.

Last week teacher Simone Randall and principal Heather English submitted a proposal to the board of education to offer a horse riding/training academy to interested students. The board approved it and DTSS will make it available for course selection.

The board previously approved an equine studies course at Selkirk Secondary School in Kimberley. The current proposal adds a learning component on animal/human interactions.

“The equestrian studies course adds value to the learning opportunities in Windermere by extending learning into an area of passion for many students,” said assistant superintendent Steve Wyer in his report to the board. 

He noted the course considers all aspects of student learning and safety with respect to owning, caring for, riding, and conducting oneself around horses.

Equine Studies 10 will allow students to gain knowledge in all areas of horsemanship, including the basics of riding. It will also touch on barn safety, horse psychology, handling, anatomy, grooming, saddling, bridling, horse health, and careers.

Randall told the board that students in the course can earn 12 credits towards graduation and can be a stepping stone to a career.

She explained the course will be offered in class at school and at a barn where they will be taught by a professional in horse husbandry. 

English said the course is a great opportunity for students to learn the concept of reciprocity with horses and the community, describing it as a give and take relationship.

“I think that without question the program promotes responsibility and respect,” English said, noting that in order for students to thrive alongside these animals, they have to manage themselves by being calm.

Randall said the barn is located in Columere Park outside of Fairmont Hot Springs. She added that a lot of DTSS alumni are “chomping at the bit” to get involved in the program, as are local riding clubs from Brisco and Windermere.

She outlined the fee schedule, noting the cost is $1,200 per student, with various payment options available. Randall said they will be looking at the possibility of grant money to lower the fee. 

School trustee Jane Fearing said the proposal sounds terrific but raised a concern about the cost. She wanted to know how the district would accommodate students who can’t afford it.

English said they have always assisted students in these financial predicaments, noting they could look at fundraising to offset the cost. “It has always been a feature of our budget to support families in need.”

It was noted the academy will accommodate 18 students who will be chosen via an application process.

Trustee Scott King asked about the safety aspect of the course and how physical risk will be handled.

Randall said every student will be required to wear a helmet when riding. She noted that all of the horses will be older, seasoned animals that are trustworthy and used to beginners riding them. 

The teacher added the academy will feature primarily western riding as opposed to English riding.

In a letter to the board, DTSS Parent Advisory Council treasurer Christine DuBois said they strongly support the proposal. She noted the academy will open the minds of students to explore potential careers in agriculture and the equine industry.

“The program’s emphasis on outdoor, hands-on learning will encourage students to spend more time away from (digital) screens,” DuBois said. 

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