Horse Course

The Leigh Creek Area School Horse Course was established in mid 2007. Since then, student numbers have increased each year. In 2010, there are 36 students participating in the program in years 6-10, as well as some after school lesson students in R-7. Students learn life long skills in how to care for and ride horses. They learn how to be responsible, flexible, compassionate and understanding. Their skills in communicating and collaborating with each other and community members are also developed through the Course and through running their own school gymkhana.

This year as part of the Horse Course we have incorporated the TAFE Certificate 1 in Racing. Each unit of work completed will earn the students points towards their SACE. In this certificate students learn the appropriate way to groom, catch and handle horses safely as well as basic riding skills.

The Horse Course Students have been very successful in competitions over the last two years. In attending the Clare High Interschool Gymkhana, the Horse Course students were back to back winners both years and received the overall Leading School Award. Students also attend local competitions such as Quorn Team Penning and the Copley and Districts Gymkhana. Several students from the school have also won well deserved Champion Rider awards at various gymkhanas. Their skills and knowledge stand out among riders of all ages throughout the district. They, along with all the other Horse Course students, have been very successful in their events as the result of the experience and knowledge gained while doing the Leigh Creek Area School Horse Course.

Lena Hage

LCAS GYMKHANA 2010

The 2010 LCAS Gymkhana was held on Saturday 28th August on the Town Oval. With blue skies, 30 enthusiastic students (Reception - Yr 10) and fantastic volunteer support, the event was sure to be a success. The day began with the students riding the horses from the Pony Club to the Town Oval. Students felt like royalty as they were escorted by Cookes Outback Motors and the Leigh Creek Police in to town. Horses enjoyed the refreshing, green grass and were ready for the day’s events. A successful day was had by all, with the majority of students receiving ribbons throughout the day. Congratulations to all students who competed in the gymkhana, your sportsmanship and enthusiasm was a credit to the school. A special congratulations to Clare Cowling - Champion Rider, Emily Nicholls - Reserve Champion Rider and Joel Alcorn - Encouragement Rider. A huge thank you to all the community members, staff, businesses and volunteers who supported the gymkhana. Thanks to their support, we raised over $4500 for the LCAS Horse Course.

Aleysha Healy