About Us
Sussex Equine Assisted Learning (SEAL) is a licensed, council-approved stables offering a safe, nurturing space where children can connect with horses and grow in confidence. We specialise in equine-assisted learning experiences that support emotional, social, and personal development — with a particular focus on children with Special Educational Needs (SEN).
Our approach is hands-on and heart-led. Through one-on-one, interactive sessions, children build meaningful relationships with our two gentle horses, Bella (14) and Fred (13). Whether it's grooming, feeding, mucking out, or leading on the ground, every activity is thoughtfully structured to encourage confidence, communication, and emotional awareness — all at a pace that suits each individual child.
This isn’t just about being around horses. It’s about learning with them — building trust, routine, and responsibility in a calm and supportive environment where children feel seen, valued, and empowered.
At SEAL, every session is a chance to connect, grow, and experience the unique and healing bond between horse and child.
Meet Our Horses
Our stables are home to two much-loved horses, Bella and Fred — a cheeky Welsh pony and her gentle best friend. Together, they help create a calm, welcoming space where children can learn, grow, and connect.
Bella
Bella is a pure Welsh pony with classic markings — including her black knees, which even earn her a proper Welsh passport! She was born on a well-known stud farm in Stroud, but life didn’t quite go to plan for her. Originally bought as a mother-daughter share, things didn’t work out, and Bella found herself passed around, often misunderstood. Like most Welsh ponies, she’s smart, cheeky, and likes to be the boss if you let her!
After a tough time with dealers, Bella eventually came to us. She was scared, especially of stables — she wouldn’t even walk into one without thinking she might be hurt. But through kindness, patience, and natural horsemanship, Bella slowly started to trust again. Now, she walks into her stable just by me saying “bed.” She’s built a beautiful bond with her best friend Fred and has become the gentle, brave pony she was always meant to be.
Fred
Fred is our much-loved miniature horse — part Falabella, standing at just 7hh (28 inches tall), and full of character! Born on a reputable stud farm, Fred is a silver bay, which means he was born black and will gradually turn white as he moves through his teenage years.
Don’t be fooled by his size — Fred has a big personality. He’s cheeky, curious, and famously food-motivated… he can practically look at grass and gain weight! That’s why you’ll often spot him in his grazing muzzle, keeping him healthy and happy. He’s also cart-trained, which he absolutely loves, and has a habit of trying to sneak snacks from your pockets when you're not looking — a bit like a four-legged Oliver Twist!
Fred brings a lot of joy and laughter to the stables, and it’s safe to say… everyone who meets him adores him.
Who We Support
We welcome children of all backgrounds and abilities, with a particular focus on those with Special Educational Needs (SEN). Whether a child needs emotional support, help developing social skills, or simply a place to grow in confidence, our sessions are designed to meet them where they are — and move forward together.
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