Equine Assisted Learning (EAL) is an unmounted (non-riding) experiential approach to teaching life skills like leadership, communication, and teamwork through working with horses.
What are the advantages of EAL?
- anyone can participate - no horse experience required
- teaches interpersonal skills in a fun, natural, and engaging way
- learn how to navigate unexpected challenges & negativity
- helps participants recognize opportunities for learning within themselves
- versatile programming options for all learning styles and processing levels
- a non-threatening introduction to horses
Who can benefit from EAL programming?
- school groups
- corporate & executive groups
- at-risk youth
- couples
- adults in assisted living
- those interested in team building and personal development
- anyone seeking to develop leadership skills & recognize learning opportunities within themselves
Why horses?
Horses are prey animals and naturally mirror the thoughts and behaviour of others. They respond quickly to our body language, giving participants instant feedback on their actions and allowing connections to develop more easily. Horses are large, powerful animals that can challenge participants to overcome fear and expand their comfort zones. As a result, they gain confidence, empowerment, and self-esteem.
Class Length: 1-3 hours
Number of Participants: minimum 4 per session, maximum 24
To inquire about booking a program date, please contact troton@tead.on.ca.
Praise for our EAL program:
"We loved our experience at TEAD! I think it was the perfect length - any longer and I'm not sure the kids of that age would have been able to handle it. But the students talked about it non stop and apparently went home talking about it. I think the fact that they got to lead the horses through obstacles and groom them gave them a huge sense of independence and responsibility. It was amazing watching them build their confidence. It was also such a unique learning opportunity that not many other people get. I know there are several other students who are interested in possibly participating!! Thank you so much for being so welcoming and offering such an incredible service."
-Holy Trinity Catholic High School
Executive Leadership Experience - EAL for Executives & Corporate Teams
Step out of the boardroom and into a unique experience that transforms the way leaders lead - with presence, clarity, alignment, and authentic influence. Our Executive EAL Experience is a high-impact leadership immersion and development program designed for:
- Executive leadership teams
- C-Suite & Senior Management
- Corporate Boards
- High-Potential Leadership Cohorts
- Organizations undergoing transition or growth
Ideal for: strategic offsites; culture resets; succession conversations; management changes; and executive retreats.
This is experiential leadership development - where insight and growth happen in real time. No riding is involved. This is an interactive, professionally facilitated experienced focused on leadership, emotional intelligence, trust, and strategic communication.
What do participants have to say?
“EAL was the best collaborative, leadership-building experience I’ve ever participated in. Working with a horse as we problem- solved as a group made for a uniquely challenging and enjoyable afternoon. It was amazing to feel our team aligning and fine-tuning communication over the course of the activities. Our facilitator gave us expert guidance, and lots of opportunities for laughter and judgement-free growth. I’d recommend EAL to any team wanting to maximize their overall strategic potential.”
— Rita
Why Choose This Experience?
Because leadership isn’t developed through slides. It’s developed through self-awareness, challenge, and reflection. No horse experience required.
Your leadership investment also supports children, youth, and adults accessing life-changing equine-assisted services.
This is leadership development with measurable impact – internally and in the community. Download the flyer below for more information.
Let’s Build a Stronger Leadership Culture.
We would welcome a conversation to design an experience aligned with your organizational goals. Contact Melissa, TEAD's Executive Director for more information.

Melissa Horvath, SSW, CCAC
Executive Director, EAL Facilitator
Office: 905-679-8323 ext. 222
Cell: 905-334-8384
melissa.horvath@tead.on.ca