Rag Tree Equine Assisted Learning

Call Directions Website Contact the school

Rag Tree Equine Assisted Learning Rag Tree is a service which offers Equine Assisted Learning and Therapeutic Horse Riding sessions. Rag Tree is Denis O'Connor and Shelly Berry.

The journey to starting Rag Tree began when Shelly having graduated with a BSc (Hons.) Equine Studies went on to research ways to promote health through interactions with horses. Denis who works in the Community and Voluntary sector for over ten years at the time embraced the idea and work on Rag Tree began. We began to offer sessions in 2011 having completed additional training specifically in EAL and Therapeutic Horse Riding. At Rag Tree we offer two services Equine Assisted Learning (EAL) and Therapeutic Horse Riding. Equine Assisted Learning combines therapeutic interventions with a more innovative component involving relationships and activities with a horse. It is generally ground based. We see the focus as learning from the horse not about the horse. Therapeutic Horse Riding is beneficial for those who present with any of a wide range of cognitive, physical and emotional conditions. Up to this point we have worked with a variety of groups including at risk youth and young people deemed to have fewer opportunities (socio economic disadvantage, family breakdown, risk of early school leaving etc) ASD and people with a variety of disabilities. This summer saw a change of direction with the introduction of our therapeutic horse riding service. We feel our location is key of the success of the work we do. We are located well off the road in a beautiful secluded spot offering sea views and privacy. Generally only those booked in for sessions are present in the yard along with facilitators. We have invested considerable time to create an environment that optimises learning and benefits participants.

What a sky to finish up the day with 🌌
15/10/2026

What a sky to finish up the day with 🌌

10/10/2026
A great photo taken at the recent EAGALA network meeting held here at Rag Tree of Miley, Henry and Chappy ☀️
04/10/2026

A great photo taken at the recent EAGALA network meeting held here at Rag Tree of Miley, Henry and Chappy ☀️

It is always a pleasure to host an Eagala network meeting and reconnecting with industry colleagues. A day spent in the...
26/09/2026

It is always a pleasure to host an Eagala network meeting and reconnecting with industry colleagues. A day spent in the field with horses with like-minded people is always a great day.

23/09/2026

🐴💛 Equine Therapy Fun! 💛🐴

Our service users have been enjoying some wonderful time taking part in equine therapy, and it’s fantastic to see the smiles and enthusiasm they bring along!

As you can see from the photo below, Marion and Ella absolutely love the horses and are always happy to get involved and lend a helping hand. 🐎🥰

It’s lovely to see them building confidence, enjoying new experiences and creating special connections with the horses. We’re so proud of them both! 🌟

Most people who have visited the yard have been welcomed by Diesel. He is now 13 years old, but we recently came across...
20/09/2026

Most people who have visited the yard have been welcomed by Diesel. He is now 13 years old, but we recently came across this photo of baby Diesel 😍

Yesterday, we bid a fond see you later to Zoe as she heads off into a new career. We can not put into words how much Zo...
22/08/2026

Yesterday, we bid a fond see you later to Zoe as she heads off into a new career. We can not put into words how much Zoe is appreciated here and how much she will be missed, but we wish her the absolute best in her new career. Zoe has been the backbone of the yard for the last 5 years with the recreational lessons as well as the therapeutic work and has taught so many to ride, improve, and enjoy their time here. Zoe, thank you so much for your hard work, enthusiasm, and skill, we will be lost without you.

19/08/2026

At Westmeath Counselling we provide Counselling and Psychotherapy Services for Individuals, couples, Children and Teens. We are centrally located in Westmeath with easy access from many routes. Click for further information.

The new horse on the block Paddy showing his cheeky side ❤️Thanks Noah for the great photo.
18/07/2026

The new horse on the block Paddy showing his cheeky side ❤️

Thanks Noah for the great photo.

15/07/2026

Address

Rag Tree, Ballinamona, Kilmuckridge
Gorey

Telephone

+353874425115

Website

Alerts

Be the first to know and let us send you an email when Rag Tree Equine Assisted Learning posts news and promotions. Your email address will not be used for any other purpose, and you can unsubscribe at any time.

Contact The School

Send a message to Rag Tree Equine Assisted Learning:

Shortcuts

Share

Category