EQUEST: Enhancing Staff Competencies in Equine-Assisted Therapy and Para-Equestrian Sports for Individuals with Disabilities

<< Objectives >>EQUEST aims to engage the professionals working with persons with special needs in professional development through practical workshops, knowledge exchange, and hands-on training, enhancing professional capacity and enabling the involved professionals to deliver high-quality, inclusive programs. This collaboration of project partners supports lifelong learning for instructors, promotes accessibility to adapted sports and rehabilitation, and creates sustainable professional development resources.<< Implementation >>The project delivers three hands-on workshops in Spain, Italy, and Poland, training 12 equestrian professionals in adaptive coaching, therapeutic riding, and para-equestrian sports. It develops digital learning resources, including microlearning e-modules and video tutorials, ensuring long-term impact. Knowledge-sharing sessions within partner organizations will expand expertise, promoting accessibility and inclusion in equestrian programs for individuals with disabilities.<< Results >>The project will increase awareness and enhance equestrian professionals' skills in adaptive coaching, therapeutic riding, and para-equestrian sports, improving accessibility for individuals with disabilities. Sustainable digital training resources (e-learning modules, videos, guides) will ensure long-term impact. A promotion and information campaign within and beyond partner organizations will inform about best practices that foster greater inclusion in equine-assisted activities across Europe.