The People Behind the Academy.

As the founder of our Post-16 Academy, Dan’s vision has always been rooted in a deep empathy for young people who need a different kind of space to thrive. He leads our Preparing for Adulthood (PFA) and Personal Development curriculum with a passionate belief that there is no "one-size-fits-all" approach to growth.

Dan treats every student who walks onto our yard as an individual, taking the time to truly understand their unique story, challenges, and strengths. His work goes far beyond standard education; he focuses on creating a safe, trusting environment where young people can recover, take responsibility, and gently discover their own immense potential.

Steve is part of the family business and Director of Shropshire Adventures. He manages all academy finances, including SLA coordination and invoicing queries, and takes an active role in keeping the site looking great. Steve leads the Adventure Centre arm of the business and is also our onsite maintenance lead, always with a project on the go.

Steph has been part of the academy from the very beginning and played a key role in pioneering it into the thriving provision it is today. She joined 15 years ago when the academy first launched as a pilot centre for the CLTH scheme and has helped shape its ethos, culture and direction ever since. With a background in youth work, suicide prevention and equine assisted learning, Steph brings deep experience and a steady, compassionate presence. Her commitment to supporting young people through their toughest moments remains at the heart of everything she does.

Zara is one of our Equine Assisted Learning Practitioners, bringing her infectious energy and deep empathy to every session. She has a remarkable ability to help young people thrive, creating a safe, uplifting space where horses become powerful partners in growth. With her intuitive approach and vibrant personality, Zara supports students in building confidence, resilience, and a sense of belonging.

Claudia brings a beautiful blend of deep expertise and gentle warmth to our equine department. Her unique approach is shaped by her previous career as an NHS children’s physiotherapist and her qualifications as an SEMH practitioner. This background gives her an intuitive understanding of both the physical and emotional needs of our young people.

For Claudia, the horses are gentle partners in a student's healing and growth. She meets every learner exactly where they are, ensuring that whether they are working toward a Challenge Award or a Work-Based Diploma, their journey is paced to fit them perfectly. Claudia’s calm presence and nurturing guidance create a safe space where students feel truly seen, listened to, and supported as they build confidence at their own speed.

Alice is a calm, approachable practitioner who works across both equine and outdoor learning. As an SEMH practitioner, she is skilled at helping students feel comfortable, engaged and ready to try new things. She is known for thinking creatively and adapting sessions so every young person can succeed.

Chloe brings extensive experience in the equine world and is a fantastic, approachable coach and hack leader. Her sessions are supportive, confidence building and rooted in high quality equine practice, helping students develop both skill and self-belief.

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Paul leads our outdoor curriculum with a strong focus on personal development and transferable life skills. A Forest School Practitioner with SEMH experience, he uses the outdoors to help students grow in confidence, resilience and independence. Paul is exceptional at creating meaningful work experience opportunities that give young people a real sense of what it is like to have a job.

Issy is a knowledgeable and highly experienced Level 4 BHS Coach with a strong track record of progressing students within the equine industry. She loves hands on, practical lessons and brings additional expertise as an SEMH Practitioner and Equine Assisted Learning Practitioner. Her sessions are structured, purposeful and empowering.

Pat brings a wealth of experience to the academy as a Level 4 Coach. She challenges students in a safe, controlled environment, helping them build confidence, competence and a strong work ethic. Her calm, steady approach supports young people to stretch themselves and achieve more than they thought possible.

Holly is part of the family team behind the academy, working alongside her brothers Steve and Dan and her mum, Steph. Based in the office, she helps to coordinate the Academy and Alternative Provision, and looks after all academy communications. She also runs the academy’s social media… so watch out, she may get you involved in a reel.

Laura leads the front desk and is usually the first person to greet you when you arrive. She manages all horse‑riding bookings for the Equestrian Centre and keeps everything running smoothly. She’s also happiest with a camera in hand, capturing sessions and the little moments that matter.