In the Spring Term a group of talented students and film making enthusiasts at QEII were asked by the Chairman of the IOM Riding for the Disabled Association if they would be interested in filming and producing a DVD of their IOM production ‘Strictly Come Riding’, for entry into a UK National competition to be held later this month.

Over the course of six weeks the students visited the indoor school at Pennybridge Stables, Kirk Michael, to film children from Peel Clothworkers’ Special Needs Unit riding the horses and ponies.

The theme for the competition was based around the successful ‘Strictly Come Dancing’ show and renamed ‘Strictly Come Riding’. The riders, instructors and volunteers dressed in costumes and rode to music for their display.

The QEII students themselves led and organised weekly lunchtime and after school sessions for the editing, as well as the production of covers and labels for the DVDs, assisted by Mr Chris Horton (ICT Systems Development Officer). QEII teacher Helen Allan said “This has allowed the students to develop their skills, whilst benefitting the wider community. They were delighted to be involved in this initiative and look forward to seeing the results later this month.”

The students presented their finalised version of the ‘Strictly Come Riding, 2015’ film to Joan Waters, Chairman of the Isle of Man Riding for the Disabled Association. The School has also donated an extra twenty copies to the RDA to raise money for funding.

Photo - Courtesy of Doug Allan, Harry riding Sox, Jamie riding Bailey, Dylan riding Brek and Jake riding Tommy QEII students and teachers with Joan Waters from IOM RDA.