This initiative has the goal of promoting students' mental health and well-being, as well as helping them manage their stress levels. The projects are open for students from the six schools of IPC and currently have 35 students participating.
Students have reported that whilst they are caring for the horses – whether they are washing, brushing, or cleaning their hooves – they momentarily forget about their worries and focus on something other than school, assisting in reducing their stress levels.
Consequently, the interaction with the horses helps them feel more relaxed and focus better on other things afterwards. Furthermore, project coordinator Ana Paula Amaral has stated that it encourages students to socialise amongst themselves, as well as improving their development and communication skills.