University Centre Reaseheath - Equine Graduate Destinations

Equine Graduate Destinations

Where will your degree take you?

Equine Science | Graduate Profiles

We are Reaseheath.

Are you?

Let’s be honest, making important choices in life is never easy and taking that step-up to Higher Education can often seem daunting.

Top of the class

So, why choose to study at Reaseheath?

Did you know that we have over 700 undergraduates and that our degree programmes are considered to be some of the best in the country?

This booklet aims to give you a taste of what it’s like to be a part of the ‘Reaseheath HE Experience’, where academic excellence and student satisfaction go hand in hand.

It’s your degree – why not be the best!

Last year, one in five Reaseheath undergraduates achieved a degree with First Class Honours or Distinction.

Here’s what we can offer you.

High academic standards Reaseheath works in partnership with the University of Chester and we are one of the UK’s leading specialist land-based colleges.

This means that Reaseheath students graduate with a degree validated by a well-respected university and with the vocational skills demanded by employers.

Our lecturers are all experts in their chosen field with extensive industry experience. Our small class sizes mean that you’ll benefit from high levels of individual support.

Our links to industry Your equine degree is the gateway to your future and at Reaseheath we believe that practical knowledge is as important as academic achievement.

We understand the importance of transferable skills and what sets us apart are our strong links to industry. These links have opened the door to a range of collaborative research projects and other opportunities.

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Equine Science | Graduate Profiles

“The ‘Reaseheath Experience’ is something that many of our graduates tell us was the most enjoyable time of their lives.”

Rachel Ellis-Jones Dean of Higher Education Along with our business collaborators and industry mentors, we are committed to ensuring that our graduates are industry ready.

Outstanding student support At Reaseheath, we understand that the equine industry can be a demanding place and that time is often at a premium for our HE students.

Therefore, we have an outstanding structure of student support in place along with the promise of flexibility within our choice of courses to assist you in achieving academic success.

Where could your degree take YOU? There is no better endorsement for our degree courses than the comments of those who have experienced them, so we have compiled a selection of profiles to show where the ‘Reaseheath HE Experience’ has taken 12 of our graduates.

Read more about their career destinations on pages 12 - 23.

Overall student satisfaction 86% National Student Survey 2016

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Equine Science | Graduate Profiles

Meet the mentors With the support of our business collaborators and industry mentors, Reaseheath is committed to providing all of our HE students with first-hand experience of how the equine industry operates.

Sue Bradshaw International Dressage Rider and Trainer The expertise of Sue Bradshaw was called upon when we were formulating our BSc (Hons) in Equine Science and Sports Performance degree.

From the outset, the aim of this degree was to produce graduates who could meet the needs of the performance horse industry.

Sue, who is trained by Carl Hester, was asked what transferable skills and knowledge were essential for students wishing to gain employment in the modern-day horse industry.

Said Sue: “I was pleased to be involved with the development of a course that included a large amount of time spent out in the workplace. It is essential for students to experience ‘real-life’ in the equine industry.”

Sue Bradshaw

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Equine Science | Graduate Profiles

Tyler Cassells Professional Event Rider and BE Accredited Coach In his role as a mentor, Tyler Cassells’ wideranging knowledge of the equestrian world is of huge benefit to our HE students.

Tyler commented: “I see my role as being someone outside of the college environment who students can approach.

This is a tough industry, but there are many opportunities and I try to make undergraduates aware of these options in order to broaden their horizons.”

Tyler, who in 2011 was selected for both the BEF Excel Talent Programme and the Talented Athlete Scholarship Scheme, completed a Foundation Degree in Equine Science at Reaseheath before going on to study via distance learning with Warwickshire College.

Georgie Critchley (BVSc, CERT AVP, MRCVS) Equine Vet Equine Vet Georgie Critchley, graduated from Liverpool University Vet School in 2001. After a short spell working for a mixed veterinary practice in Kent, Georgie joined the Brown Moss Equine Clinic in Cheshire.

Georgie said: “I was delighted when I was asked to be involved with the HE degree programmes at Reaseheath. I feel that my role as a mentor is to suggest themes that are industry relevant. If I have a personal interest in an area that I believe would benefit from more research, then I try to guide the students towards such topics.”

He graduated in 2014 with a BA (Hons) in Equine Science and Management.

Tyler Cassells

Georgie Critchley

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Equine Science | Graduate Profiles

Research opportunities Irish Equine Centre

BEF MAREC Internship

BSc (Hons) Equine Science undergraduate Lucy Atton was offered a lifetime opportunity to gather data for her honours research project at the Irish Equine Centre (IEC).

Each year, the BEF (British Equestrian Federation) invites applications for a competitive internship to be spent at Virginia Tech’s Middleburg Agricultural Research and Extension Centre (MAREC) in the USA. The winner, selected from throughout the UK, has the opportunity to spend three months at MAREC, the world’s leading equine breeding and research centre.

Based in County Kildare, the IEC’s expertise in equine diagnostics and disease prevention ensures that the Irish horse industry continues to flourish while protecting the wellbeing of Ireland’s horse population.

During a two-week work placement at the IEC’s Virology department, Lucy gained invaluable research experience and broadened her existing knowledge of virology, immunology and pathology.

The IEC is a reference lab for ongoing research into equine influenza and the remit of Lucy’s thesis will be to compare antibody levels in equine blood samples taken pre and post inoculation.

Lucy commented: “I really enjoyed my visit to the IEC and found my time working in the lab fascinating. My varied degree programme is helping me to keep my career options open. This means that I have the choice to progress to further study or to follow a career in scientific research.”

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In 2017, BSc (Hons) Equine Science undergraduate Rhiannon Elsmore became the fourth Reaseheath student to be awarded this prestigious internship.

Rhiannon follows in the footsteps of 2016 winners Michelle Hand and Zoe Greenwood, who both graduated from Reaseheath with BSc First Class Honours in Equine Science. Michelle and Zoe benefitted greatly from gaining unique insight into a worldclass programme for the breeding and management of young stock.

Charlotte Woolley was the recipient in 2014 during her final year at Reaseheath. Charlotte went on to study for a PhD in neuro biology at the Royal (Dick) School of Veterinary Studies in Edinburgh.

James Rayner, a Course Manager at our Equestrian Centre, is another recipient. James was awarded the internship in 2012 and returned to MAREC for an additional year on a BEF placement.

Equine Science | Graduate Profiles

Advancing Equine Scientific Excellence (AESE) Reaseheath graduates Freja Woodward and Becky Webb had the opportunity to contribute to a collaborative British Equestrian Federation (BEF) research project, part of the BEF’s ‘Advancing Equine Scientific Excellence’ (AESE) initiative.

Their research was based at riding schools and their remit was to discover how to attract and retain the modern day rider. Freja’s area of focus was increasing rider participation while Becky considered how to develop client loyalty.

Freja commented: “This was an interesting and challenging experience that improved our ability to work to deadlines whilst building industry contacts and enhancing our research skills.”

Data was collected by conducting questionnaires, focus groups and interviews with the owners of each establishment, their clients and industry experts from the BEF and the British Horse Society.

Becky added: “Working for an industry-linked collaboration is a rewarding experience and one that I would encourage anybody who has the opportunity to take.”

Top: Irish Equine Centre (IEC) Lucy Atton gathers data for her research project Middle: BEF MAREC interns Michelle Hand and Zoe Greenwood Bottom: AESE researchers Freja Woodward and Becky Webb present their findings to BEF judges

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Equine Science | Graduate Profiles

Our courses BSc (Hons) Equine Science BSc (Hons) Equine Science and Sports Performance BSc (Hons) Applied Equine Behaviour and Welfare Top-Up FdSc Applied Equine Behaviour and Welfare FdSc Equine Physical Therapies and Rehabilitation Full and part-time study options available

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Graduate Profiles

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Equine Science | Graduate Profiles

Amelia Kenyon BSc (Hons) Equine Science (Top-Up) FdSc Equine Science and Management Graduated: 2014 Profession: Advanced Practitioner/Lecturer and Course Manager in HE Equine Amelia Kenyon graduated from Reaseheath in 2014 with a First Class Honours degree in Equine Science.

The same year, Amelia was invited to present the findings of her acclaimed industry-linked thesis, which looked at the effect of Psyllium supplementation on faecal sand output, at the Alltech Conference held at Hartpury College, Gloucestershire.

“As an undergraduate, I was gradually encouraged to become more independent and to be responsible for managing my own time with regards to assignment deadlines and data collection for my thesis, alongside managing my work and home commitments.”

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Amelia commented: “Lectures are based on the most recent advances in scientific research, and the assessment methods employed at Reaseheath reflect challenges you might encounter in the workplace.

“An example of this was a final year assessment that required us to work as a team of consultants for an elite performance horse yard, producing a presentation that was fit for industry. These type of assessments really prepared me for employment by developing team working and communication, time management and problem solving skills.”

Whilst collecting data for her thesis, Amelia worked closely with Industry Mentor Georgie Critchley (BVSc, CERT AVP, MRCVS) from the Brown Moss Equine Clinic in Cheshire.

Amelia believes that her time as an undergraduate also provided her with the skills to succeed in her current role as a lecturer and course manager in our HE Equine Department.

Said Amelia: “As an undergraduate, I was gradually encouraged to become more independent and to be responsible for managing my own time with regards to assignment deadlines and data collection for my thesis, alongside managing my work and home commitments.”

Equine Science | Graduate Profiles

Ashley Neely BSc (Hons) Equine Science Graduated: 2015 Profession: Founder of EFEC Nutrition Ashley Neely found her niche in the equine market by launching the first mobile equine faecal egg counting business in Northern Ireland.

Based in Enniskillen, Ashley’s business EFEC Nutrition is a yard-based faecal egg counting service which diagnoses worm burden in equines and offers owners nutritional advice to help keep their horses in perfect health.

As a part of her business, Ashley delivers talks and demonstrations to horse owners and riders on a range of topics including the science of parasitology and general equine nutrition. She’s also had the opportunity to represent EFEC Nutrition at various specialist equestrian shows and events across Northern Ireland, including the College of Agriculture, Food and Rural Enterprise (CAFRE) equine technology showcase event.

In August 2016, EFEC Nutrition celebrated a successful first year of business and, having already built up a strong reputation within the industry, Ashley now has plans to expand.

Currently, the 22-year-old is studying with the Animal Medicines Training Regulatory Authority (AMTRA) to obtain her SQP qualifications. Once achieved, EFEC Nutrition will also be offering faecal egg counting in farm animals such as sheep and cows.

“Studying at Reaseheath helped me gain the knowledge and practical skills to start out in the equine industry. Thanks to the support of my lecturer Dawn Gale and her passion for parasitology, I found my gap in the Northern Irish market.”

For more information about EFEC Nutrition visit: facebook.com/EFECnutrition1

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Equine Science | Graduate Profiles

Charlotte Woolley BSc (Hons) Equine Science Graduated: 2014 Profession: PhD Student, The Royal (Dick) School of Veterinary Studies, University of Edinburgh In 2014, Charlotte Woolley graduated with a First Class Honours degree and was awarded a prestigious internship to visit the Middleburg Agricultural Research and Extension (MARE) Center, part of the Virginia Tech State University, USA. This university specialises in breeding and producing top quality sports horses and 21-yearold Charlotte trained in veterinary techniques whilst assisting with research into nutrition, reproduction and parasitology. She also helped to prepare young stock for the show ring and ran educational outreach workshops with children.

“The internship was a fantastic experience – truly life changing. I was able to build on both my academic and practical skills and broaden my horizons in terms of my knowledge of the equine industry.”

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Charlotte, who hails from Buxton in Derbyshire, explained: “The internship was a fantastic experience – truly life changing. I was able to build on both my academic and practical skills and broaden my horizons in terms of my knowledge of the equine industry.”

Aiming for a career as a veterinary research scientist, Charlotte went on to complete her Masters degree in Animal Biosciences at the University of Edinburgh and was then awarded a funded PhD with The Royal (Dick) School of Veterinary Studies, University of Edinburgh to research canine epidemiology and genetics.

Equine Science | Graduate Profiles

Chris Jones FdSc Equine Science, Complementary Therapy and Natural Horsemanship Graduated: 2013 Profession: Rehabilitation Centre Team Member at Redwings Horse Sanctuary After graduating, Chris Jones immediately secured employment as an Equine Centre Team Member at Redwings Horse Sanctuary in Norfolk.

Said Chris: “Initially, I was responsible for completing general duties and working alongside our in-house veterinary team to help administer medication and to perform various health treatments. Then in August 2014, I was offered my current post in the Behaviour Unit.”

Chris’s responsibilities include working with horses with behavioural issues by using various methods of training, including equitation science and learning theory; the knowledge of which he acquired during his degree.

Whilst studying at Reaseheath, Chris was given the once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to become involved with a project for the BBC’s ‘Countryfile’ programme.

Chris explained: “I was given the chance to train four completely unhandled, feral Exmoor foals who were owned by Countryfile presenter Adam Henson. Through the application of theory covered in modules, including applied behavioural theory and behaviour and welfare, my team and I successfully trained the foals to undertake daily tasks to a level where they could be handled with ease.

“I was given the chance to train four completely unhandled, feral Exmoor foals who were owned by Countryfile presenter Adam Henson.”

“The Exmoor project was extremely valuable to my current role as it gave me the experience of working with nervous horses. This has been essential when working with the behavioural projects at Redwings.”

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Equine Science | Graduate Profiles

Emily Cockerill BSc (Hons) Equine Science Graduated: 2016 Profession: Veterinary Assistant Emily graduated from Reaseheath with a 2:1 BSc Honours degree in Equine Science. She particularly enjoyed studying modules on mammalian biochemistry and physiology, and her interest in injury and rehabilitation has led to her choice of career.

After graduating, Emily entered the equestrian industry as an assistant yard manager at a large equestrian centre before she decided to take a break from working with horses.

“Without the support and guidance of my lecturers I would never have gained work experience in a large animal practice.

I absolutely love what I’m doing and don’t see myself doing anything else.”

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During her studies Emily had undertaken a work placement at her local veterinary practice and thoroughly enjoyed the experience. Knowing that she had always wanted to work in the veterinary sector, Emily contacted the vet she had shadowed during her placement to ask advice about pursuing a career in veterinary nursing.

Emily has since secured a position as a veterinary assistant with the Vets4Pets group and is soon to embark on her formal training to become a veterinary nurse.

Emily commented: “Without the support and guidance of my lecturers I would never have gained work experience in a large animal practice.

I absolutely love what I’m doing and don’t see myself doing anything else.

“Due to my lack of small animal experience it was the knowledge of mammalian biochemistry and veterinary physiology I developed at Reaseheath that enabled me to secure this job. My employers have been impressed with how I apply scientific knowledge in my approach to work.”

Equine Science | Graduate Profiles

Emily Westwood BSc (Hons) Equine Science (Top-Up) FdSc Equine Science and Management Graduated: 2015 Profession: Yard Manager and Veterinary Nurse, Nantwich Veterinary Group Equine Centre/ Founder of ShakeazeTM Muzzle Guard Equine Science graduate Emily Westwood is focused on a following a highly specialised career in veterinary medicine. Upon graduating in 2015 with a First Class Honours degree and an award for academic excellence, Emily was successful in securing a place at the prestigious Royal (Dick) School of Veterinary Studies in Edinburgh to read Veterinary Medicine and Surgery.

During her time at Reaseheath, Emily was given the opportunity to complete a work placement with the Nantwich Veterinary Group at their Equine Centre and it was here that her passion for veterinary medicine was kindled.

Her placement led to an offer of employment at the equine centre, with Emily staying on as Yard Manager and as a Veterinary Nurse.

Further information about ShakeazeTM Muzzle Guard can be found at shakeaze.com

At the same time, making the most of her business prowess and skills of innovation, Emily launched her own business designing and manufacturing a product to help horses suffering from the symptoms of ‘headshaking’ syndrome.

The proceeds from sales of her ShakeazeTM Muzzle Guard have helped Emily to raise the necessary funds to pursue her dream of becoming a vet.

Emily, 28, has successfully raised £150,000 which will cover the costs of her course fees whilst studying in Edinburgh. She credits the invaluable support of the Nantwich Veterinary Group Equine Centre and their connections who have assisted her in achieving this impressive accomplishment.

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Equine Science | Graduate Profiles

Emma Hazell BSc (Hons) Equine Science Graduated: 2012 Profession: Executive Assistant to the Chairman and Chief Executive of the British Equestrian Federation (BEF) After completing her degree at Reaseheath, Emma Hazell (nee Carr) worked outside of the equine industry for a short period before relocating to Oxfordshire where she secured a job as an Equine Veterinary Nurse with the Avonvale Veterinary Practice.

Emma’s current role with the British Equestrian Federation (BEF) came about after she saw the post advertised.

“My course at Reaseheath prepared me for the industry by helping me to develop a range of transferable skills through the various projects and work placements that I experienced.”

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“I wanted to embark on a career at the core of the equine industry and working for the BEF – who are the national governing body for horse sports in the UK and affiliated to the FEI – is an incredible opportunity.

“My course at Reaseheath prepared me for the industry by helping me to develop a range of transferable skills through the various projects and work placements that I experienced,” Emma explained.

Equine Science | Graduate Profiles

Hannah Dickson BSc (Hons) Equine Science (Top-Up) FdSc Equine Science, Complementary Therapy and Natural Horsemanship Graduated: 2015 Profession: Equine Faecal Analyst/Founder of Equine Erudition After graduating with a BSc (Hons) in Equine Science and a thesis which was celebrated as being an ‘Outstanding Achievement in Undergraduate Research’, 22-year-old Hannah Dickson was keen to put her study into practice.

With a blend of entrepreneurial spirit and the research skills acquired during her degree, Hannah launched her own mobile faecal egg counting business under the name of ‘Equine Erudition’.

During her degree, Hannah had the opportunity to gain valuable work experience at the Harthill Stud in Cheshire and this is where her interest in faecal egg counting was first developed.

Hannah explained: “My time at Reaseheath was fantastic because it taught me how to organise many things at once. This skill has definitely helped me to set up my business and I learned everything there is to know about parasites during my studies.

“It was hard to choose which direction to pursue with regards to a career, as I had thoroughly enjoyed all aspects of my degree course. However, after my work experience at Harthill, I approached one of my lecturers for advice about setting up a business which really helped me to get things started. I loved every minute of studying at Reaseheath, it truly fuelled my passion for working in the equine industry.”

“I loved every minute of studying at Reaseheath, it truly fuelled my passion for working in the equine industry.”

Find out more about Equine Erudition at: equineerudition.co.uk

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Equine Science | Graduate Profiles

Laura Friend BSc (Hons) Equine Science Graduated: 2013 Profession: Research Assistant, Thoroughbred Health Network (University of Glasgow) In 2010, Laura Friend made the life-changing decision to resign from her career of 10 years and to enrol as a mature entry student on our BSc (Hons) in Equine Science.

As an undergraduate, Laura was committed to gaining experience and to forging links within the industry. She worked on a part-time basis for Bolesworth Castle Estate and at Kelsall Hill Equestrian Centre, whilst her work as a volunteer included the Thoroughbred Rehabilitation Centre in Lancashire.

“My career will always be driven by a desire to understand and advance the health of equines in both sport and recreation.”

“My career will always be driven by a desire to understand and advance the health of equines in both sport and recreation. Consequently, I am also motivated by the challenges that threaten the long-term sustainability of the equestrian industry.”

Upon graduating and with a burgeoning interest in the horseracing industry, Laura was fortunate enough to secure a place on the British Horseracing Authority’s Graduate Programme.

This exciting opportunity began with a two-week residential course in Newmarket followed by work placements at York Racecourse and the Horserace Betting Levy Board in London.

Laura has gone on from this to undertake an MBA in ‘Thoroughbred Horseracing Industries’ at the University of Liverpool where she is in her final year of part-time study.

Currently employed by the University of Glasgow, Laura is developing a new horse health initiative named the Thoroughbred Health Network.

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Equine Science | Graduate Profiles

Louise Swindells BSc (Hons) Equine Science Graduated: 2017 Profession: Science Teacher (Secondary) Louise Swindells graduated with a BSc in Equine Science with First Class Honours, and was chosen as the recipient of the Deans Award for outstanding undergraduate research. Louise’s dissertation: ‘An investigation into the efficacy of steaming hay for horses’ received industry acclaim when it was selected as BETA’s Equine Thesis of the Year 2017.

As an experienced riding instructor holding the BHSAI certificate, Louise worked at prestigious British Horse Society approved establishments, such as Ingestre Stables, before she enrolled at Reaseheath as a mature student on our Level 3 Extended Diploma programme.

On progressing to the BSc (Hons) Equine Science degree Louise, who has ridden competitively at a national level, also worked as an instructor at Reaseheath’s Equestrian Centre.

Louise found her degree course to be interesting, applied and industry-relevant. The broad spectrum of science-based modules gave her the skills to apply for science jobs outside of the equestrian sector.

Upon graduating, Louise secured a post at a secondary school in Crewe where she is teaching science while studying for a PGCE. Her aim is to progress to study a Master’s degree in education.

Said Louise: “My course enabled me to develop the transferable skills which are essential for professional work or further study and this allowed me to keep my career options open. All my lecturers were very supportive and the small group sizes allowed for a more personal and supportive service.”

“My course enabled me to develop the transferable skills which are essential for professional work or further study and this allowed me to keep my career options open. All my lecturers were very supportive and the small group sizes allowed for a more personal and supportive service.”

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Equine Science | Graduate Profiles

Lucy Atkins BSc (Hons) Equine Science (Top-Up) FdSc Equine Science and Management Graduated: 2010 Profession: Veterinary Postgraduate Programmes Support, University of Liverpool (Leahurst) Reaseheath opened doors to a new career for Lucy Atkins when in 2007 she enrolled as a mature entry student on our BSc (Hons) Equine Science degree.

Lucy’s career up until this point had been in Family Support but a life-long interest in animals, particularly horses, prompted her decision.

On successfully completing her degree with First Class Honours, Lucy worked for a specialist claims management company in equine insurance before landing a job with the University of Liverpool in their Veterinary Postgraduate Unit.

“I particularly enjoyed the research year where I was able to study in depth a condition that had affected my own horse.”

Lucy’s current role involves supporting the Veterinary Postgraduate Programmes Coordinators and Administrators in the production and delivery of online modules for all postgraduate taught students within the unit.

In addition, Lucy supports the Postgraduate Diploma/MSc Veterinary Physiotherapy Programme by coordinating all clinical placements and provides technical support during Residential Schools including the recruitment and handling of animals for Veterinary Physiotherapy training.

Said Lucy: “I thoroughly enjoyed my time at Reaseheath. I always felt fully supported by the lecturers particularly as I had returned to Higher Education as a mature student. The modules were very interesting and challenging and gave me the knowledge that I needed to change my career path.

“I particularly enjoyed the research year where I was able to study in depth a condition that had affected my own horse.”

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Equine Science | Graduate Profiles

Natalie Harrison BSc (Hons) Equine Science Graduated: 2016 Profession: Founder of Cheshire Equine Services Before enrolling at Reaseheath, Natalie Harrison ran her own business as a freelance groom but after working at a racehorse rehabilitation yard, her interest in equine rehabilitation and therapy blossomed.

As an undergraduate on our BSc (Hons) Equine Science programme, Natalie grew her existing business to incorporate her work as an Equine Bodyworker and, in July 2015, she launched Cheshire Equine Services.

Since graduating, Natalie has accepted an offer to study Veterinary Physiotherapy with Canine and Equine Physiotherapy Training (CEPT) at the University of Nottingham.

Said Natalie: “I am very grateful for all the help I received from my lecturers at Reaseheath. For someone who considers themselves to be ‘not really academic’, I couldn’t have done it without their encouragement.”

“I am very grateful for all the help I received from my lecturers at Reaseheath. For someone who considers themselves to be ‘not really academic’, I couldn’t have done it without their encouragement.”

Find out more about Cheshire Equine Services at: cheshireequineservices.co.uk 21

Equine Science | Graduate Profiles

Phillip Adams BSc (Hons) Equine Science Graduated: 2013 Profession: Course Manager, Writtle University College Phillip Adams graduated from Reaseheath with a BSc (Hons) in Equine Science whilst he was working as a member of staff on our Equine Unit.

“Without the help, guidance and fantastic teaching abilities of the HE teaching staff I would have never finished my degree and I certainly wouldn’t be where I am today. I can never thank them enough.”

Phil, who holds the BHSAI certificate along with a Diploma in Education and Training, decided to return to education as a mature student after many years of working as an Operations Manager for a large communications company. In that role he was responsible for managing a team of people to meet company objectives.

Prior to this, Phil worked at the Yorkshire Riding Centre under Jane and Christopher Bartle before he relocated to Italy to become a Yard Manager and Federal Rider in Florence.

Phil‘s broad experience of the horse industry fostered a keen interest in gait analysis, anatomy, biomechanical efficiency and the way in which each ridden discipline can affect a horse’s physiology.

Phil commented: “During my second and third year of study at Reaseheath, my wife had some health issues and without the help, guidance and fantastic teaching abilities of the HE teaching staff I would have never finished my degree and I certainly wouldn’t be where I am today. I can never thank them enough.”

Phil is currently completing an MSc in Veterinary Physiotherapy and, since September 2015, he has been Course Manager for the Integrated Masters in Veterinary Physiotherapy and the BSc in Animal Therapy at Writtle University College in Essex.

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Equine Science | Graduate Profiles

Sarah Kearney BSc (Hons) Equine Science (Top-Up) FdSc Equine Science and Management Graduated: 2012 Profession: Nutritionist, Dodson and Horrell In 2012, Equine Science undergraduate Sarah Kearney (nee Rainford), was awarded the prestigious Eqvalan Duo Equine Thesis of the Year.

The following year, Sarah was invited to speak at the HETI (Federation of Horses in Education and Therapy International) Conference and at the National Equine Forum (NEF) where she was honoured to meet HRH Princess Anne.

The Royal Agricultural Society of England devised this award in recognition of exceptional equine academic achievements among college and university students.

Sarah faced much competition, with finalists being chosen from Writtle University College, the Royal Agricultural College, Anglia Ruskin University and the University of Limerick.

The remit of Sarah’s thesis was to consider whether horse riding could successfully increase joint mobility in physically disabled children. She developed an interest in this subject after doing work experience with the Riding for the Disabled (RDA) group at Foxes Riding School on the Wirral.

Sarah, who has gone on to study for an MSc in Equine Science at the University of Edinburgh, said: “I was extremely proud and honoured to be have been chosen as the winner of the thesis of the year award, especially with the high standard of other entries. I hope that the work I have done will go towards validating the work of the RDA.”

“I was extremely proud and honoured to be have been chosen as the winner of the thesis of the year award, especially with the high standard of other entries.”

After graduating, Sarah secured a post as a nutritionist with feed company Dodson & Horrell.

Her duties include advising owners on their horse’s dietary requirements, writing magazine articles and helping to develop new feed ranges.

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