Testimonials

Young Horse Starting Clinic

I first met Arran in July 2010 after reaching breaking point with my 2 year old Alfie. I had been looking at starting Alfie myself using conventional methods. We started doing basic groundwork; lunging and long reining, but before long things started to spiral out of control to the point where I couldn't even lead Aflie to and from the field without vertical rearing, striking and biting.

After numerous people telling me I should just give him a good hiding and I knew this would only make the situation worse. I contacted Arran under the recommendation of another instructor. Since then both Alfie's and my life have changed. I could see all the little bits Alfie had been trying to tell me but I hadn't been listening which then caused him to have to really shout and show me that he wasn't happy. I spent the next 10 months having groundwork lessons with Arran and soon the calm was restored and I was not only able to lead Alfie to and from the field but also round big open hay fields.

I knew the first time I met Arran that he was the person to start Alfie and it has got to be the best decision I have ever made. Arran started Alfie in May this year and then I went on the 3 day young horse clinic and the beginning of June. The 3 days were amazing. I learnt so much about understanding my horse and the importance of helping him feel good about himself as well as myself so that we are able to work together.

Everybody on the clinic is in the same position so there was the added support from other owners as well as the Student of the Horse team. I learnt so many new skills over the 3 days and I now feel confident to go on and give my horse the strong foundation that we both need to progress with our future together.

Thank you for bringing me and Alfie back together. Amy Thompson

Lucy and Lily

In my opinion, one of the things that makes the Student of the Horse clinics unique compared to others is that they are tailor-made to suit the individual needs of the horses and humans, no matter where they are in their journey.  Attending Student of the Horse clinics gave me just what I needed to help me get out of a rut and back into the saddle. Just three days with Arran re-inspired me and the lessons I learned are truly invaluable.

Rachael has given me horsemanship tuition for over a year now and this one-on-one help has improved my skills, confidence and my general self tenfold. She has helped me develop my horsemanship to a level where I can finally ride my emotionally unbalanced horse, Lily. Before Rachael started giving me tuition I was truly stuck, exasperated and very close to selling Lily - to think what I would have missed out on!

It's not been an easy journey but Rachael has been there with me every step of the way while I've been rebuilding Lily's foundation. Rachael's ability to hold your hand when you're nervous, yet still give you the push you need to progress is the type of support that all students need and just one of the things that makes her a truly excellent teacher. Lucy Middleton