Cat Dalton - Equine Alumni

Cat chose to study the BSc (Hons) Equine Sports Science and Coaching at Bishop Burton University Centre because of the specialist equine facilities, the opportunity to complete British Horse Society (BHS) qualifications alongside her degree, and the ability to build her coaching business while studying.

Having already gained industry experience before starting her degree, Cat wanted to create a sustainable long-term career by combining practical expertise with teaching and coaching qualifications. The course enabled her to achieve both her degree and recognition as a British Horse Society Accredited Professional Coach (BHS APC), with the support and encouragement of academic staff throughout her studies.

Since graduating, Cat has established a successful career as a dressage rider and coach, working with a wide range of clients across the region. She also returned to Bishop Burton College as a sessional Further Education Equine tutor, sharing her expertise with students, and continues to support the College as a guest coach.

The academic staff were incredibly supportive throughout my degree. The tutors made a real effort to get to know each student individually, including their aims and ambitions for the future. I always felt the tutors were very invested in the student's journey and pushed you to strive for a little bit more. I was encouraged to go for BHS exams and was supported with extra training for them if required.

My course enabled me to progress through the BHS exam system, and ultimately gain my teaching qualifications to become a full-time freelance rider and coach. The knowledge I gained within the course has proven invaluable daily, from equine management and understanding of coaching theory including psychology, physiology and biomechanics when teaching clients, to the finer details of setting up my own yard and running my business.

I particularly liked the balance of practical work with theory. I am very academically minded and loved getting stuck into the theory-based modules, however, it was great to have the chance to put into practice what you had learnt into the practical sessions and gain immediate feedback from tutors and peers.

I have set up my own yard since graduating and am able to take in horses on schooling and breaking livery, alongside training and competing a variety of horses for clients on a freelance basis. I currently compete horses for owners up to Advanced Medium BD, and BE and BS grassroots. The knowledge gained on the course has been invaluable for this role, whether it be understanding how the horse’s conformation, anatomy and any injuries may influence the way I need to train, to a greater understanding of behaviour, nutrition, tack choice and fit.

I would recommend University Centre Bishop Burton to anyone serious about a career in the equine industry. The academic team were incredibly supportive in encouraging me to strive for greatness and helping me achieve my goals.

We have Equine courses at college level and at degree level, providing you with the vital knowledge and experiences to pursue a successful career in the equine industry.