Kate Kirkpatrick, Chief Instructor & Proprietor

Kate has over 30 years experience in owning, training and enjoying horses. Having grown up with horses of all shapes and sizes, she is an enthusiastic and passionate instructor offering practical solutions to common riding issues. She loves to instill confidence in her riders through all aspects of horsemanship, not solely riding.

Kate is our lead registered Pony Club Coach and Assessor.

Kate is our Equestrian Safeguarding Officer (ESO) at Stoke Lane Stables.

Top Three SLS Horses/Ponies: Troy, Snips & Millie

Nyah Bunce, Instructor

Nyah joined us recently at the yard helping with a variety of daily yard duties and supporting the staff wherever she’s needed including some instruction. She is an ex-rider of SLS from many moons ago and has decided to pursue teaching and is making a brilliant impact so far!

Nyah enjoys being involved in all aspects of yard life and loves spending time with the horses, getting to know their different personalities.

Top Three SLS Horses/Ponies: Poppy, Fagin & Conker

Kim Couzens, Human Welfare Officer (HWO) and Yard Supervisor

As well as being a hugely supportive and inspiring member of the parent body, Kim has also gained her Safeguarding Certification and is the first point of call for any safeguarding issues at the yard. Please contact Kim on kim.couzens@yahoo.com if you have any concerns about policies, procedures, staffing or welfare. Kim is also one of our resident first aiders.

Top Three SLS Horses/Ponies: Blue, Cole & Snips

Emma Whitfield, Instructor

Emma has been a rider and helper at the yard for a number of years and, after completing her work experience placement with us, she decided to continue in the role of instructor.  She is attending Cannington College studying Level 3 Horse Care & Management. We are so proud of her and are supporting her wholeheartedly in her equestrian journey. 

Top Three SLS Horses/Ponies: Bridget, Conker and Cookie.

Claire Western, Instructor & Volunteer

As a returning rider herself, Claire understands the ups and downs that come from building confidence. She is always happy to lend a hand, show what she has learned and encourage others to enjoy their time in the saddle.

Claire is passionate about horse welfare and takes pride in the small details that keep the stables running smoothly - whether that is grooming, tacking up or simply offering a reassuring word to a nervous rider.

Top Three SLS Horses/Ponies: Troy, Rex & Sprite

Ralph Kirkpatrick, Yard Dog

The most important role, Kate's amazing mini dachshund Ralph provides useful barking duties as well as skill in eating random things and generally being beautiful.

Top Three SLS Horses/Ponies: Foxy, Dandy & Muffit