During the 2012/13 winter/spring semester at Sir John A Macdonald High School, the Métis Women’s Circle offered young Ab
original men the opportunity to earn high school credits through experiencing equine assisted learning.
Students were made familiar with the historical relationship between Aboriginals and horses. The spirit of the horse was experienced in a country setting under the supervision of a certified equine assisted learning instructor. Students worked with horses both individually and in small group work where they learned acceptance and respect, teamwork, and handling skills.
Exercises were designed to teach students those skills to apply in personal situations addressing self-esteem, counter bullying techniques, peer pressure, and dealing with anger. Aboriginal culture carriers augmented the program by introducing land teachings and their personal working experiences centered on horse culture.
