Elisabeth Svendsen Trust

Edward is five years old and started attending EST Leeds in September 2008. He rides on a weekly basis with three other children from Yeadon's Westfield Infant School. Edward has been referred to the Centre as a 'selective mute' and on entering school in September would not communicate in school. Since attending the Centre with his class mates on open days and coming along to the Saturday Club, Edward has begun to talk to adults and his peers.

Kirsty Christmas, one of the riding instructors at EST Leeds, teaches Edward each week and says that the difference in his confidence and level of communication is amazing.

"When Edward first started donkey riding he chose not to communicate verbally at all and would only nod or shake his head to answer questions. After a few months, in which time Edward has become a capable rider and enjoys playing all the games, Edward started to whisper into our ears. Now, after nearly a year, Edward speaks confidently to members of staff and volunteers and will ask his donkey to 'walk on'. Edward is a lovely little boy who clearly enjoys his donkey rides and spends time with the donkeys. It is just wonderful to hear his voice!"

Kath Jennings, Edward's teacher and Special Needs Co-ordinator for Westfield School, has great praise for the centre. "EST Leeds offers so many experiences in different ways and has helped Edward with his communication difficulties!".

Pictured with Edward is British Paralympian Lee Pearson CBE, patron of the Elisabeth Svendsen Trust for Children and Donkeys.

Related links

Daily Express, 8 September 2009
Donkeys helped me find my voice