FAQ
Please also read our EFL sessions page.
How much do sessions cost?
We offer a 15% discount if you book 6 or more sessions.
- Initial 15-20-minute phone/Zoom consultation – free
- 60-minute EFL session – £50*
- 90-minute EFL session – £70*
- 60-minute ‘herd time’ session – £30*
Herd time sessions are less structured, an opportunity for you to chill with the horses. You can choose to book a mixture of structured EFL sessions and herd time sessions, or just EFL sessions.
* 15% off these prices for students, unemployed and OAPs regardless of how many sessions you book (proof required).
(Prices as of November 2022.)
What clothes should I wear?
Most of the year, wear clothes that are warm, and bring a waterproof coat. Trousers should be worn, rather than skirts, but if this is not possible, please ensure your skirt does not touch the ground as the horses could tread on it.
Wearing something with a pocket can be useful if we are doing an activity that uses a notebook and pen.
In winter, we recommend you bring a warm hat and gloves, and extra layers of jumpers.
If the weather is warm, you may still want to wear long trousers and a long-sleeve top rather than shorts and t-shirt. This will protect you from horse flies, nettles, brambles, etc.
What should I wear on my feet?
For safety reasons, you should wear sturdy shoes or boots when you are near horses. Waterproof walking boots or wellies are ideal as the grass can be wet or the ground can be muddy, even if it’s not raining. Please do not wear trainers, pumps, sandals, or other lightweight shoes. If you don’t have, or are not able to wear sturdy or heavy footwear, we can organise activities that avoid close contact with the horses.
What facilities do you have?
We have a concrete yard, but to maintain privacy and a connection with the horses in a natural environment, most activities are done in the fields. The fields are hilly and bumpy. There are various places where we can stand under natural or man-made shelter when it rains, and on dry, flat, mat-covered areas. Please contact us to discuss any accessibility queries you have.
There are no luxuries. We have a small tack room where we can make a hot drink. There is also a camping portaloo.
Is it dangerous working with horses?
Jack and Boston are well-trained and gentle animals. That doesn’t mean working with them is totally risk-free. They have big feet and they are very heavy, so you will want to be aware of where your feet are in relation to their feet!
EFL can sometimes raise clients’ emotions and energy levels, which in turn can change the energy levels in the horses. Ingrid always stays on hand so she can advise or intervene if a high-energy situation develops.
Will I ride the horses?
No, EFL is a non-ridden approach. You may sometimes groom the horses or lead them around, if you want to. You will not be asked to do any activity with the horses that you do not feel comfortable with. You can even meet the horses over the fence, if that is what feels comfortable.
Can I bring someone with me?
Your EFL session is private and confidential, so it involves just yourself, the horses and Ingrid. You can travel to our yard with someone, and they are welcome to wait for you, but we recommend that they should not watch your session. Herd time sessions can be arranged for more than one person (and prices adjusted accordingly). If you have queries or concerns, please do contact us to discuss.
Where is WiseHooves located?
WiseHooves sessions are held at our facility in SK6, between Marple Bridge and Strines. Location details and a map will be provided when you book your first session. We have ample parking available. We are about 1 mile (20 minutes walk) from Strines station or 2 miles (40 minutes walk) from Marple station.
If you want to explore after your session, we are in easy walking distance of the Peak Forest Canal, Roman Lakes, and other beautiful walking and cycling areas.