Our programmes

Donkey Facilitated Learning

Donkey Facilitated Learning (DFL) is a coaching-based experience in the presence of donkeys that is guided by a qualified facilitator. The aim of these sessions is to create a space for individuals to discover their own capabilities by offering opportunities to develop their wellbeing and life skills.

DFL Programmes run up to 10 sessions usually on a weekly basis. Clients can expect to be on site for up to 2 hours but generally the session activity runs for under an hour. Throughout the programme, the facilitator will work alongside the donkeys, using skills to support the individual to develop aspects of wellbeing and life skills using specific session guides.

Sessions are tailored to develop specific life skills whilst also allowing facilitators to adapt sessions to meet the client’s evolving needs. Session guides are structured around six key life skills: self-awareness, self-belief, communication skills, decision making, empathy and managing feelings and emotions.

Donkey Management Programme

Our Donkey Management Programmes (DMP) are activity led and aim to raise awareness of donkey welfare and wellbeing, through a physical approach.

These sessions help to develop a greater understanding of the donkeys’ day-to-day care, while offering a unique learning environment that supports self-development and wellbeing. DMP often develop skills in organisation, communication, decision making and develop a sense of achievement, improving confidence and self-belief. 

The programme is run over a set number of weeks (typically six to eight) with the sessions structured around the five welfare domains: nutrition, environment, health, behaviour, and mental state. They are key aspects of animal care and welfare that give the client an insight into caring for donkeys and how we manage their health and happiness, helping to foster positive relationships between humans and donkeys while developing a sense of compassion and responsibility for animals in general.

As such, these programmes provide an opportunity for expanding a client’s knowledge of animal care while developing key life skills.

Wellbeing with Donkeys

Wellbeing with Donkeys (WWD) offers the time and space for individuals to focus on developing skills around everyday wellbeing needs. These sessions take place in natural surroundings with a focus on promoting positive physical and mental health practices.

Sessions may involve interactions with donkeys, participation in mindfulness activities, or specific coaching support to develop awareness of emotional and physical wellbeing. Wellbeing with Donkeys runs as a standalone session.