Pony Stars!
Pony Stars is our Junior Challenge Awards helping under 12s to discover, develop and nurture their love for ponies and the outdoors. With over 100 topics for children to explore, Pony Stars will ignite a passion for ponies, build knowledge and cement friendships that will last a lifetime.
As part of the programme, each child will receive their very own My Challenge Book to log their achievements. As they progress through the various challenges there will be stickers, badges and rosettes up for grabs too to keep them engaged and motivated.
With four key groups, Pony Stars enables long-term progression with a range of activities that will develop knowledge, skills and self-confidence. In each group your child will work through sets of challenges that make up topics within set themes.
Click here to register your interest
Let me introduce you to the 4 groups:
Shetland Striders are courageous and bold; just like Shetland ponies themselves. They will try anything and enjoy getting hands-on and can turn their hand (or hoof) to almost anything.
They will work towards badges that will develop their passion for caring for all animals, wildlife, people and the environment. Shetland Striders will develop core skills like handling ponies and riding through regular lessons which build confidence and commitment.
Shetland Striders will work through topics within six themes which can be completed in any order to suit their individual preferences.
Stickers are awarded upon completion of topics. Once a theme is complete an iron-on cloth badge is awarded. When all themes have been achieved the Shetland Striders rosette and certificate are awarded.
Dartmoor Dazzlers are kind, reliable and gentle and will enjoy having fun with their friends and socialising as they begin to be more adventurous. They are inquisitive and will enjoy taking on new challenges and learning more about the world around them.
They will try new things as they learn about how to look after ponies and have a deeper understanding of animal welfare and responsibility. Their riding will progress in leaps and bounds as they begin to discover how much more fun there is to be had with their riding as they explore the outdoors. Dartmoor Dazzlers will also be considerate to those around them and how they can play their part in promoting kindness and respect at the yard and everywhere else.
Dartmoor Dazzlers will work through topics within six themes which can be completed in any order to suit their individual preferences.
Stickers are awarded upon completion of topics. Once a theme is complete an iron-on cloth badge is awarded. When all themes have been achieved the Dartmoor Dazzlers rosette and certificate are awarded.
Welshie Wizzers are spirited and tough cookies. They have a playful character and will enjoy the variety of different topics and activities, and will excel as they challenge themselves and develop new skills. Welshie Wizzers are trustworthy and are often looked upon as dependable members of the community.
They will understand the responsibility in caring for horses and ponies all year round – ensuring happy, healthy ponies. They will also begin to explore issues they really care about and know how to use their voice and actions to make a real difference. They will also share their skills with others as they look at leadership and campaigning. Their riding skills will continue to develop and they will begin to consider the health and wellbeing benefits that come with a love for ponies.
Welshie Wizzers will work through topics within six themes which can be completed in any order to suit their individual preferences.
Stickers are awarded upon completion of topics. Once a theme is complete an iron-on cloth badge is awarded. When all themes have been achieved the Welshie Wizzers rosette and certificate are awarded.
Connemara Champs are the consistent and trustworthy members of the group. They are confident to have a go at activities and give it their all. They are kind to everyone they meet and are excellent role models admired by all.
They will be able to take an active role in looking after ponies and understanding what makes them tick. They will be more independent with their ability to ride, handle and work around ponies. They will have developed a range of riding skills through fun activities and be considerate to their pony’s comfort by learning about tack fit and care. Connemara Champs will learn how to prepare for riding in different environments and look after their pony when out and about. They will be able to help around the yard and look out for those that may need help and support.
Connemara Champs will work through topics within six themes which can be completed in any order to suit their individual preferences.
Stickers are awarded upon completion of topics. Once a theme is complete an iron-on cloth badge is awarded. When all themes have been achieved the Connemara Champs rosette and certificate are awarded.