Oxford Virtual Academy 

Agriprojects: A Unique Equine Educational Experience

Offered through Oxford Virtual Academy (OVA) and hosted at Shenanigans Farm, Agriprojects is a hands-on, agriculture-based learning program that uses horses to teach a wide range of academic and practical topics.

Designed for students from elementary through high school, this course blends equine science, horsemanship, and agriculture into one unforgettable experience.

What Students Will Learn

Agriprojects is structured around four core areas:

  • Equine Basics
    Horse and herd behavior, physical traits, health, nutrition, barn and pasture management

  • Equine Careers & Professionals
    Learn from trainers, vets, and farriers about equine sports, sciences, and veterinary care

  • Equine Arts & Culture
    Explore the horse’s role in literature, art, history, and society

  • Riding & Horsemanship
    Hands-on experience in horsemanship and riding, with safety and foundational skills at the core

Eligibility & Requirements

  • Enrollment:
    Open to Oxford Virtual Academy students in grades 1 and up (elementary through high school)
    Full-time or part-time OVA enrollment required

  • Contact Marissa Larson to Enroll 248-705-0400

  • Start Point:
    All students, regardless of experience, begin with AG100. This introductory course ensures a strong foundation in barn safety, horsemanship, and Shenanigans Farm’s program structure.

  • Course Fees:

    • $100 for part-time OVA students

    • $400 for self-pay (non-OVA) students

Program Structure

  • Balanced Learning:
    Each session includes half on-the-ground learning (classroom/farm) and half riding time (where applicable)

  • Focus on Agriculture:
    The goal is not to teach students to become expert riders, but to use horses as a tool for comprehensive learning

  • Multi-Year Learning Path:
    Students can stay in the program for up to six semesters (three years), progressing through the following courses:

    • Ag100 – 1 semester

    • Ag200 – 1 semester

    • Ag300 – 2 semesters

    • Ag400 – 2 semesters

  • Ages: Elementary & Up
    Semester Length: 1
    Includes Riding? No

    Perfect for younger or new students, Ag100 introduces basic horse care and safety through hands-on, ground-based learning.

    Topics Covered:

    • Horse & barn safety

    • Grooming

    • Horse behavior & anatomy

    • Nutrition & health

    • Parts of tack & equipment

    • Styles of riding & disciplines

    • Equine sports and career pathways

    Requirements: Closed-toe shoes/boots.

  • Prerequisite: Ag100
    Semester Length: 1
    Includes Riding? Yes – at the walk

    Building on Ag100, this course introduces beginner riding and reinforces safety and handling skills.

    Topics Covered:

    • Grooming & tacking

    • Mounting & dismounting

    • Steering, halting, and riding at the walk

    Requirements: ASTM-certified helmet, pants, and boots

  • Prerequisites: Ag100 & Ag200
    Semester Length: 2
    Includes Riding? Yes – walk & begin trot

    Students start riding independently at the walk and are introduced to the trot.

    Topics Covered:

    • Grooming & tacking

    • Safety and horsemanship

    • Riding at the walk and beginning trot

    Requirements: ASTM-certified helmet, pants, and boots

  • Prerequisites: Ag100, Ag200, Ag300
    Semester Length: 2
    Includes Riding? Yes – walk & trot independently

    Students continue developing independence in the saddle, with confident riding at the walk and trot.

    Topics Covered:

    • Horse care & barn safety

    • Grooming, tacking, and advanced basics

    • Independent riding at the walk and trot

    Requirements: ASTM-certified helmet, pants, and boots

Agriprojects Course Levels

Learn More About OVA

OVA Director

Marissa Larson | 248-705-0400