Thorncroft is pleased to announce the opening of enrollment for 2026/2027 sessions of Intro to Horsemanship for First Responders.
Teaching with a strong emphasis on foundational principles of horsemanship, Thorncroft’s Intro to Horsemanship for First Responders programming is a six-week, ground-to-saddle, non-therapy service that includes lessons on equine behavior, herd dynamics, round penning, lunging, and, for those who qualify, riding.
No prior horse experience is required. The class includes five weeks of unmounted (no riding) horsemanship education, with the sixth week offering the opportunity to ride for those who qualify. Thorncroft observes a 200lb rider weight limit for our Intro to Horsemanship participants.
Scope of Service
Thorncroft provides adaptive horseback riding lessons and equine-assisted services that may promote physical, emotional, and social well-being through horsemanship. While our programs are designed to be inclusive and supportive, Thorncroft does not provide therapy or clinical treatment services, and participation should not be considered a substitute for therapy or medical care.
Pricing: Free for all First Responder participants. Please note that, effective January 1, 2027, a reduced participation fee will be implemented.
Register: For more information and to register, please email admissions@thorncroft.org
Instructor: Kim Longo, CTRI, MMES
Session Information
Time: Wednesdays 6:00 p.m.-7:00 p.m. or Thursdays at 1:30 p.m-2:30 p.m.
Fall 2026
October 28/29-December 9/10 (No sessions the week of Thanksgiving.)–Now enrolling.
2026 Family Nights: December 16 from 6:00 p.m.-7:00 p.m. Family Nights are held at Thorncroft.
2027 Courses
Winter 2027
February 3/4-March 10/11, 2027-Enrollment opens January 2027
Spring 2027 I
March 31/April 1-May 5/6, 2027-Enrollment opens January 2027.
Spring 2027 II
May 19/20-June 23/24, 2027-Enrollment opens March 2027.
Fall 2027 I
September 8/9-October 13/14, 2017-Enrollment opens August 2027
Fall 2027 II
October 27/28-December 8/9*-Enrollment opens September 2027.
*No class week of Thanksgiving.
2027 Family Nights: March 24, October 27, December 15 from 6:00 p.m.-7:00 p.m. Family Nights are held at Thorncroft. Friends and family members welcome!
2027 Family Nights: December 24, October 10, December 15.
Location: Thorncroft Equestrian Center – 190 Line Road Malvern, Pennsylvania 19355
Pricing: Free for all First Responder participants. Please note that, effective January 1, 2027, a reduced participation fee will be implemented.
For more information, and to register, please email admissions@thorncroft.org
Support the Farm!
Since 1969 Thorncroft has provided a safe haven for children and adults with and without disabilities. The Farm now includes 70 acres of open space, a conference center, office space and two beautiful indoor arenas… but the work does not stop there.
Learn more about the many ways you can support Thorncroft.
