MSc Equine Behaviour, Performance and Training
“I wanted to gain a higher academic qualification, especially after owning a traumatised ex-racehorse who prompted a deeper interest in equine behaviour and welfare. This led me to enrol on Sparsholt’s MSc in Equine Behaviour, Performance and Training.
I can honestly say that I loved every minute. Initially it was daunting returning to study as a mature student, but the tutors were approachable and supportive and made me feel instantly comfortable. I loved the mix between classroom and practical teaching. It was clear that welfare was always prioritised here and Sparsholt is also just a really friendly, welcoming and supportive place to be.
The course itself was interesting, varied and sufficiently challenging. The facilities at Sparsholt enabled us to partake in pioneering research, especially with the eventing simulator, and the rider performance studio.
My lecturers encouraged me to be ambitious and gave me support and encouragement to develop my research project, which has been accepted in an academic journal. My MSc helped me gain my role at Brooke, and I enjoyed the experience of studying so much that it prompted me to begin applying for PhDs and I’ve been accepted for a PhD in equine welfare. I couldn’t have got to this point without the help, support and encouragement of everyone at Sparsholt.
I currently work at Brooke (Action for Working Horses and Donkeys) as Senior Manager for Global Animal Welfare. I oversee welfare assessment and programmatic interventions across Brooke’s country programmes and manage a team of global animal welfare advisors. When I finish at Brooke I am then beginning a 4 year PhD at the Royal Veterinary College, fully funded by World Horse Welfare, investigating the welfare of equids at slaughter across the world.
Being a student at Sparsholt was such a great experience and if I could go back and do it all again I would in a heartbeat.”
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