We offer several options for tiny tots at Valley Farm. If you would like your child to have a go at riding as a one off for a special treat, or if your child is horse mad and wants to be a future Olympian we have everything you need to get them started.
You could join our tots club, book a birthday party, book a shared private lesson or hack with Mum or Dad, or go for a walkout on the leading rein round the farm.
Non-riders may enjoy a family visit to meet the animals and ponies and enjoy coffee and cake in our Camargue Café.
Valley Farm Tots Pony Club meets Saturday 11.00 - 12.00
The children have a 30 minute lead rein riding lesson (led by a parent or carer or older Pony Club Member).
The riding is followed by a Pony Care session which is supervised guided learning, during which the children discover all about ponies and work towards their mini achievement badges. (Pony Club membership required to receive mini achievement badges). There are Mini achievement badges in topics such as:colours and markings, feeding, field safety, grooming, horse clothing, leading, mucking out, pony behavior and many more. You do not need to attend sessions every week you can come along however often you like. Pre-booking is required. Book at valley-farm.ecpro.co.uk Valley Farm (ecpro.co.uk)
One to one, 30 minute lessons
These can be arranged, during the week or at weekends. These are suitable for children 2-6 years old. We have miniature horses for the tiny tots and larger horses for the brave!
All the above lessons incorporate tuition in correct handling of the reins, steering, stopping, trotting and are progressive leading on towards 1 hour lessons. The format of our lessons is fun based educational learning.
Book at valley-farm.ecpro.co.uk Valley Farm (ecpro.co.uk)
One to one, 30 minute walkouts
This may be a preferred option for children who are not yet ready for formal lessons or those who want to get out and enjoy the countryside while looking for animals and wildlife. A walkout is a less formal way for your child to enjoy being on a horse, and is a great way to develop confidence around horses, and help establish the balance and vocabulary needed before moving onto lessons. Parents are welcome to walk alongside if they want to, or they can take a break in the cafe and relax.
Family walkouts
We have lots of gentle little ponies which are ideal for small groups of young children. This is a popular choice for holiday makers and special treats. During a 30 minute session children will be introduced to their ponies, helped to adjust the tack correctly for mounting, taught how to sit correctly and hold the reins, they will then be led around the farm trails by one of our qualified coaches. Parents are encouraged to accompany the children and walk alongside. Parents will be required to lead ponies for larger groups so appropriate closed toe footwear is essential. Instruction will be provided for any adults assisting with leading ponies.
To Book Walkouts
To book online register at Valley Farm (ecpro.co.uk) then book a 'general session' and in the notes you can specify you want a walk out. If you need any help with your booking call 01728 746916 or use the web contact form at the bottom of this page.
Suffolk Quality Kitemark
Valley Farm has achieved the Suffolk Quality Kitemark. This is a nationally recognised quality assurance scheme. We have been awarded this for our good practice in ensuring that children in our care receive experiences to encourage their individual development through learning and play. Our instructors are qualified First Aiders and have carried out Child protection courses.
Valley Farm Tots Club aims are:
We are Ofsted registered. You may be able to use your Childcare Vouchers here. Our Ofsted registration number is VC374742
First Time Rosettes
We are able to award ‘My First Time’ Rosettes to help encourage children. There are 5 to collect.
We have to order these from The Association of British Riding Schools, so if you would like to purchase one for your child, please let us know in good time. We do carry some stock so it is always worth asking.
Pony Club Membership
Any child can take part in riding activities at Valley Farm, but if your child becomes interested enough to ride regularly you might like to consider membership. Becoming a member of the Pony Club provides liability insurance and the option start collecting badges and certificates. Annual Enrollment is payable to The Pony Club. Memberships last for a 12-month period from when you begin. Please ask your coach if you require more information.
If you would like to find out more about the Pony Club, of which Valley Farm Gym-khana is an Approved Centre you can do so at www.pcuk.org. There is also more information about Pony Club for older children on our Pony Club page.
Extra Activities
Free Entry to our visitor centre is included for riders who have booked lessons or walkouts and for immediate accompanying family members. Our play area is often popular with children of all ages and the Camargue Cafe provides a selection of hot and cold drinks and snacks. If you have children with extra energy or non riding members of the family you might find these extras helpful to keep little ones occupied while others ride or to extend your visit after a ride so that they sleep well later on!
