Ali had great passion for horses ever since kindergarten, this year in OVS, she is able to expand her passion into the academic day.
“Before this course I didn’t know how to take care of horses, I only knew how to ride,” said Ali.
The equestrian program has been an important part of OVS throughout OVS history, but it is the first time that an academic course has been offered on horses. For those who have a passion for horses and riding, this course is an amazing opportunity to learn more about horses and every other aspect of equestrianism.
This course aims to build understanding for horses and their relationship with humans throughout history. Some topics include equine psychology and behavior, farriers and shoeing horses, veterinary care, and techniques to safely work with horses.
Students can explore different topics by researching on specific themes, for example, they did a presentation on different horse breeds.
All equine science students have experience riding horses, but new topics in the class constantly surprise them with things they did not know.
“They’re learning all kinds of things they didn’t know about their horses,” said Mrs. Wilson.
The course leader Mrs. Wilson is a very experienced teacher and expert horse handler and equestrian. She was the equestrian program director of OVS for many years and now has12 horses at her ranch in Ojai
She is loved and respected by her students.
“She(Ms. Willson) is one of my favorite teachers that I have at the moment.” said Ellie
Just like other electives, equine science is an interest based course, it is open to everyone, with or without experience.
“It relates to learning how to take care of my horse at OVS.” Ali describes this class.