Equine Minds CIC logoEquine MindsCommunity Interest Company

Equine MindsHow we work

The learning approach came first. The platform was then built to deliver it.

How the learning platform works

Rather than adapting Equine Minds to fit a generic course system, we created our own learning environment around clarity, flexibility and neurodivergent usability from the beginning.

View the course details Young people

Lesson formats

Choose to read, listen, watch or interact

Where equivalent lesson formats are available, learners can choose whether to read, listen, watch or interact with the content.

The learning outcome stays the same. Choosing a different format does not mean repeating the work.

  • The Read format: a key points page for ages 16 to 17 on reading a feed label, with Read to me switched on and the words highlighted as they are spokenRead
  • The Listen format: an audio lesson for ages 12 to 15 on how a herd keeps itself safe, with a transcript that lights up as it playsListen
  • The Watch format: a video lesson for ages 8 to 11 on picking out a hoofWatch
  • The Interact format: a knowledge check for ages 16 to 17 on when to call the vetInteract

Built in, not bolted on

The features that make the difference

01

Calm / Focus view

Removes unnecessary on-screen distraction while keeping the lesson, progress and essential information visible. Learners can switch between Calm / Focus and the full view whenever they choose.

02

Save and return

Progress is saved accurately, so learners can pause and return to the right place.

If someone has been away for a while, they may receive a gentle reminder to continue. Taking a break is never treated as failure.

03

Staged evidence

Where an assessment allows it, work can be completed and gathered over time in an Evidence Folder rather than everything depending on one large final task.

04

Tutor support

There is always a clear route to ask a real person for help.

Learner-support questions normally receive a response within two working days, and submitted work is normally marked within seven working days.

05

Know when you are practising and when you are being assessed

Practice activities and formal assessment are clearly separated, so learners always know what they are doing and what counts towards assessed achievement.

06

No diagnosis needed

Neuroinclusive learning features are available to every learner.

There is no requirement to disclose a diagnosis or prove that you qualify for ordinary learning support.

One platform, three age bands

The same platform, at every age

  • The ages 8 to 11 lesson screen: Meet the Pony, a video lesson with three next steps and a Next button
    Ages 8 to 11Explore
  • The ages 12 to 15 activity screen: which horses look relaxed, with six photo tiles to choose from
    Ages 12 to 15Develop
  • The ages 16 to 17 practical record screen: vital signs with normal ranges and a weekly record
    Ages 16 to 17Launch

Parents and guardians

Parent and guardian visibility

Depending on the learner’s age and the course, parents or guardians may be able to see enrolment, progress through lessons, assessment status, submitted evidence, tutor feedback and certificate readiness.

The aim is to provide enough visibility to understand progress while allowing the learner appropriate independence.

Oversight by age
A submission screen showing document, image, video, audio and typed evidence options

Next step

Explore the courses

View the course details