Introduction
I have spent more than 40 years working with horses — training, teaching, studying and continually learning. Horses have an extraordinary ability to teach us, and my career has been shaped by the brilliant instructors and trainers who have guided me along the way. I am deeply grateful for the knowledge they shared and the consistency of classical principles that connect all their teaching.
Body Awareness & The Alexander Technique
My interest in body awareness and the Alexander Technique began over 40 years ago, inspired by Mary Wanless. This work transformed how I understand the rider's body and its influence on the horse. Many riders are never taught how to use their body effectively, yet it is fundamental to the horse's balance, confidence and progression.
When I teach, I work with both horse and rider together — helping the rider develop the self-awareness, balance and coordination that allow the horse to move freely and without tension. Only when both partners are in harmony can true training begin.
“Only when both partners are in harmony can true training begin.”
Training the Teachers of Tomorrow Trust (TTT)
In 1987 I became a life member of the Training the Teachers of Tomorrow Trust (TTT), created by Tom and Jennifer Sewell to provide instructors with genuine access to classical dressage training. At that time, opportunities to learn from international trainers were limited, and the TTT became a unique home for high-quality, consistent education.
The programme of clinics, lectures and demonstrations shaped my work for over 40 years, and I am enormously privileged to have been part of it until the Trust closed in 2017.
Influential Trainers & Mentors
I had the rare opportunity to train with and observe many exceptional horsemen and women regularly:
- Stephen Clarke – FEI International Dressage Judge
- Arthur Kottas – Former Chief Rider, Spanish Riding School of Vienna
- Charles de Kunffy – FEI Dressage Judge
- Herwig Radnetter – Senior Rider, Spanish Riding School
- Miguel Ralão – International rider and trainer from Portugal
This continuity of classical training has shaped everything I pass on to my pupils.
Biomechanics & Holistic Influences
My interest in biomechanics was further inspired by the seminars of Gerd Heuschmann, whose research continues to deepen our understanding of equine movement. In 2015, during a seminar in Munich, I met Manolo Mendez, one of the founders of the Royal Andalusian School of Equestrian Art. Watching him work was unforgettable.
That trip also inspired me to explore acupressure after seeing the remarkable results of Manolo's work alongside the late Dr Kerry Ridgway.
Training Philosophy
I trained my first horse from a newly backed youngster to Prix St. Georges with the TTT and Andrew Day. In later years, my horses have needed remedial training due to injury or difficult histories. Helping them recover became more important than competing, and this experience has deeply influenced my work.
Classical dressage is the progressive development of the riding horse using methods refined over generations. When done well, it becomes an art — the horse grows more expressive, more balanced and moves in harmony with the rider.
I believe strongly in training without force or gadgets. A horse that moves comfortably and freely shows a soft, supple back and expressive limbs. Stiffness, tension or “bad behaviour” often signals discomfort or pain.
Helping Riders & Horses
A quiet, harmonious seat is essential for good riding. Without self-awareness and the ability to listen through the seat, the rider cannot guide the horse effectively. Poor saddle fit, tension, asymmetry or undetected lameness can all contribute to training difficulties.
I aim to help riders truly listen to their horse, understand the root of a problem and train in a way that brings comfort and confidence to both. I teach riders across all disciplines — dressage, eventing, show jumping and hacking — and everyone shares the same goal: a horse that feels happy, willing and comfortable to ride.