It all started back in 1985 when Kay’s parents introduced her to horses, and from there she spent many days working as a yard hand and groom to the Griffiths family and their beautiful competition horses at Wood Farm, Sedgley. It was here that Kay found her passion for horses and she is thankful for the wonderful childhood memories that she created at Wood Farm, and in particular those created with Rockstar!
Kay had the privilege of owning Rocky for many years but this time was cut short when she lost the beautiful competition horse to cancer in 2006. During Kay’s time of owning Rocky she had the great pleasure of learning how to stay on through a rear, sit to a buck and close her eyes during cross country! Without owning Rocky Kay simply would not know what she knows today and would never have pushed herself so much in her education and training and how to can train horses in an ethically and sustainable way.
Kay’s biggest regret – not knowing all of this when Rocky was alive. She is deeply saddened that during Rocky’s life he trialled every training method, effective or not, and at times exposed to punishment. However without Rocky, Kay would not have so much passion for training techniques that are supported by evidence and works day in, day out with consideration and welfare for our much loved friends.
After obtaining her BHS AI in 1999, Kay found employment at Rodbaston College (now South Staffordshire College) and progressed quickly from Equine Lecturer to Course Manager in 2004. During this time Kay studied part time for a degree and graduated from Wolverhampton University in 2003 obtaining her Post Certificate in Education. Since then Kay has gone on to complete her BHS Stage 4 and Centre10 accredited Coach Certification in applied psychology.
In 2011 Rockstar Equitation Centre was launched, this centre is the first step in all of the great things to come. REC is now a BHS approved Riding Centre, Training Centre and Livery yard.