How our EYES program helped Sarah reconnect with school and herself
Sarah*, a 15-year-old young person referred to the Equestrian Youth Engagement Service, had a documented history of school disengagement due to significant anxiety. Prior to her involvement in the program, Sarah attended school infrequently and was socially withdrawn, with limited participation in extracurricular activities or peer relationships.
Australian Childhood Foundation designed the EYES program to support young people with complex needs, particularly those involved in or at risk of involvement in the youth justice system. The program uses equine-assisted learning to build both equestrian competencies and critical interpersonal skills such as emotional regulation, resilience, self-esteem, and social confidence.
From the outset, Sarah demonstrated a high level of engagement in the program. She attended weekly sessions consistently and built a strong rapport with program facilitators and the horses. The structured but flexible environment of the program appeared to suit Sarah’s needs, providing both predictability and opportunities for safe risk-taking.
Since commencing the EYES program, Sarah’s engagement in education has markedly improved. School attendance has become regular, and teachers have noted an increase in her confidence and participation in class. In addition to re-engaging in her education, Sarah has also begun participating in prosocial extracurricular activities, including joining her school basketball team.
Impact and Significance
Sarah’s journey illustrates the powerful therapeutic impact of the EYES program for youth experiencing emotional and behavioural difficulties. Her progression from a withdrawn, anxious young person to an engaged, active participant in her community demonstrates the value of trauma-informed, relationship-based approaches in youth justice settings.
The program’s combination of equestrian skill development and psychosocial support has provided Sarah with a foundation of trust, self-worth, and capability—key protective factors that contribute to her ongoing development and reduced risk of justice system involvement.
Sarah’s story is a compelling example of how trauma-informed interventions, grounded in connection and experiential learning, can create meaningful change. The EYES program continues to offer a unique and effective pathway for young people like Sarah to reconnect with themselves, their communities, and their potential.