Dinky Ponies Equestrian Centre
Based at Chase Farm near King’s Lynn, Norfolk, Dinky Ponies Equestrian Centre provides a unique Alternative Provision that uses equine and animal-based learning to engage children and young people who may struggle to thrive in mainstream educational settings.
Set within a calm rural environment, the provision offers practical, hands-on experiences that help learners develop confidence, resilience, communication skills and emotional well-being through working with animals.
More about Dinky Ponies Equestrian Centre
Dinky Ponies works collaboratively with schools, local authorities and families to deliver flexible, supportive placements that complement educational goals while promoting personal growth. By fostering meaningful connections with animals in a structured and encouraging setting, the provision helps young people gain valuable life skills and confidence that can positively influence both their education and everyday lives.
Each placement is tailored to the individual, combining activities such as pony care, grooming, stable management and outdoor learning with opportunities to develop teamwork, responsibility and problem-solving skills.
Where are they based?
Find them at:
Dinky Ponies Equestrian Centre,
Chase Farm,
Spice Chase,
Tilney St. Lawrence,
King’s Lynn,
PE34 4RD
You can also call on: 07885 150111
Or email: dinkyponies@chasefarm.net
Available courses
Dinky Ponies Equestrian Centre currently offer Animal Care Level 1 and Horse Care Level 1 and Level 2.
The guides below contain more information on these courses.
There is a lot of information, so if you would prefer to speak to someone about these courses on the phone, please call us on 01672 519977.
We would love to hear from people interested in taking these courses, their families or from local authorities looking to support them.
Level 1 Work-Based Animal Care
Guidance on the course, and what it involves.
Level 1 Work-Based Horse Care
Guidance on the course, and what it involves.
Level 2 Work-Based Horse Care
Guidance on the course, and what it involves.
" Working with alternative provision students alongside horses is about connection. Horses help teach trust, patience, and emotional honesty in ways no classroom can. In their presence, young people don’t just learn—they feel seen, grounded, and capable of change. "
After the course
People who take a course will learn new skills and get a qualification.
They can choose to do another course, or look for a job doing what they have learnt.
Alternative Provision - Questions and Answers
The length of the course depends on the person taking it, their needs and what course they are interested in.
Some courses can also have different things to learn at different levels too.
If you are unsure if your local authority will pay, please get in touch and we can help to guide you, alongside the companies we work with to give the training.
These courses are made for those who found school hard. The learning is done is small pieces and is made for you to understand. You will have support from experienced people who know how to help you and want you to succeed. Everything about the course is made for you so that you can get experience doing something you enjoy.
Animals including horses have been proven to increase levels of happiness and well-being. Being around animals and learning to take care of them enables people to develop skills of empathy and understanding.