For more than a decade, I have lived and worked across many corners of the equine industry, from hands on work as a groom to presenting published research. My approach is deeply rooted in science, shaped by empathy for both horse and human, and guided by values that love the natural world.

Registered Nutritionist (RNutr)

The Association for Nutrition (AfN) holds a register of qualified human and animal nutritionists, and individuals must meet rigorous standards across qualifications, competencies, portfolio evidence, and ethics. I am a Registered Nutritionist (RNutr) with the AfN, and I am also a committee panel member, which means I contribute internally to projects surrounding nutrition education and the AfN generally.

Education

I bring a unique combination of educational background to the industry, as I hold a BSc in Psychology and a Masters MSc in Equine Science (with Distinction), which helpfully combines knowledge and understanding of both people and equines. My GMBPsS post-nominal confirms my registration with the British Psychological Society.

Work

The road to where I am now has been filled with all manner of perspectives, all of which I’m grateful for and that allow me considerable ability to be holistic. I’ve worked as a groom, both for riding schools and livery yards, as well as freelance for private clients and competition yards, and even in equine laundry.

When I used to trailer out with my own horse, I also helped offer some loading and travel training, and occasionally helped with riding, for exercise and behavioural reasons. In more recent years I have worked as a lecturer for equine courses, and in the equine feed industry as a nutritionist, as well as being involved in general operations, staff training, production, export, staff management, and as a qualified forklift driver and riding hat fitter.

Before the equine industry, I worked as a project manager in the finance industry, and prior to this as a nanny, health care assistant, researcher, student ambassador, and sport coach.

AFHEA

AFHEA stands for Associate Fellow of Higher Education Academy, which is a globally recognised teaching credential awarded by Advance HE. It’s designed for higher education professionals, requiring evidence of teaching that meets set criteria for effectiveness, reflection, knowledge, inclusivity, and professional values. I have been an AFHEA since 2021.

Publications and Presentations

As part of a professional and highly skilled team, I conducted research on hay, haylage, pull pressures and postures from haynets. This work is now published research in the peer reviewed scientific journal, Animals. I have also published articles, thought pieces, and CPD content for SQP features in various well-known magazines including Central Horse News, Horse & Rider, Equine Trade News, British Eventing Magazine, and more.

I’ve conference presented our published research, as well as delivering teaching and training to students, staff, vets, and nutritionists-in-training, and have been fortunate to attend all manner of conferences, industry meetings, and conventions.

Hodgson S, Bennett-Skinner P, Lancaster B, Upton S, Harris P, Ellis AD. Posture and Pull Pressure by Horses When Eating Hay or Haylage from a Hay Net Hung at Various Positions. Animals. 2022; 12(21):2999. https://doi.org/10.3390/ani12212999

RYT

An RYT is a registered yoga teacher with a globally recognised credential that is awarded by Yoga Alliance, and requires completion of a certified training programme that includes both practical and knowledge based assessment. I’ve been an RYT since early 2025 and offered regular local yoga classes throughout 2025 before taking a break to focus on other ventures.

Personal

Connection and interest in horses, and animals generally, has always come naturally to me, and I’ve had the privilege of owning and loving my own horse, Blue, since 2015. A thoroughbred with a huge heart, bottomless appetite, and sensitive soul, the journey with him started after he’d recently left racing and he has taught me endless amounts.