Author: Jaden Joyner (Senior Student Life Officer – Health & Wellness)
paid event
Wanstead Community Riding Stables
Friday, June 19
Join us on a tour of Wanstead Community Riding Stables, a riding school located in the heart of beautiful Wanstead Park. First, we’ll start on a scenic walk through Wanstead Park before arriving at the stables. Here, you’ll have the opportunity to groom and groom the horses, learn about their behavior and their daily routines, and enjoy a guided riding session in a safe, supportive environment.
Along the way, you’ll discover how spending time with animals and nature can calm the mind and lift your mood – while also having fun and trying something new. No prior experience with horses is necessary, and all activities will be led by experienced staff who will guide you along the way.
price: £10 – We will also offer a free space to any student who agrees to do an Instagram takeover before 18th June, with a common theme in your posts being to look after the mental health and well-being of someone abroad. For more information about the requirements for acquisition and to submit your interest in a free space, email london@arcadia.edu – the first to contact and select the acquisition date will receive the free space.
These include: 2 hours guided horseback riding, grooming and education. Equipment (helmet, shoes and saddle) will be provided.
Accessibility: It is a beginner friendly activity, with no previous riding experience required. Due to the small size of the horses, the stables require all riders to submit their height and weight, with the maximum weight for riders being 13 stone (approximately 180 pounds). Students who are not able to ride for any reason can still care for and interact with horses. Expect a 20-minute walk (with the option of bus transport) from the nearest tube station to the stables, which are on solid ground; the stables have muddy and uneven ground. This event may not be suitable for people who have severe allergies (grass, dust, or animals) or have problems being around large, unpredictable animals.
free program
Wellness Wednesdays (Drop-in Hours)
Every Wednesday from 12-1pm
Student Life staff will be hosting weekly virtual Drop In hours where you can ask any questions you have about health care, insurance coverage, homesickness, self-care strategies and anything else you need to know in London. Students will be provided a link to join for drop-in hours during their orientation.
Cost: £0
These include: Weekly health and wellness focused drop-in hour for Q&A with Student Life staff.
Accessibility: Completely accessible.
Wellbeing Walk – Box Hill
Friday, July 10
We’ll go on an incredible, refreshing journey to the summit of Box Hill. It’s a chance to reconnect with nature, unplug, get away from daily pressures and enjoy the beautiful views of the Surrey Hills.
This guided walk will provide a chance to get fresh air and take a break from the city. The route will include woodland trails, open view points and rest stops along the way. Once we reach the summit, we’ll stop for photos and coffee/refreshments at the Box Hill National Trust Visitor Centre.
Cost: £0
These include: A guided hike and coffee at the Box Hill Visitor Centre. Keep in mind that you will be responsible for train fare to the meeting location.
Accessibility: This is a moderately challenging hike that may not be suitable for everyone. This hike will include uneven terrain, slopes and 275 stairs down from the summit. There will be many rest stops along the way. The total walking duration is 1.5-2 hours and toilet facilities are available only at the railway station and Box Hill summit.
Fair Shot Cafe
Friday, August 7
Fair Shot is a social enterprise café in London that aims to help young adults with learning disabilities and autism find employment through practical training and education. The café aims to break down barriers and help these young adults out of the unemployment cycle. Students will have the opportunity to enjoy great coffee/refreshments, connect with others in this inclusive space, and connect with their local community in a unique way.
Cost: £0
These include: Coffee/Refreshments at Fair Shot Café
Accessibility: fully accessible
Notes on booking wellness programs
- Event booking will open through your Arcadia portal approximately two weeks before the event.
- The link to Wellbeing Hours will be shared with students during orientation, as well as in their weekly e-mail from the Student Life team.
- Please make sure you have completed all checklist items in your application to ensure you will be able to register for the events when they go live!
- Events running outside of your event dates will not appear on your Arcadia portal.
