Sian Fernandez Thomas

About me

Horses have been a central part of my life from an early age. I grew up competing in affiliated Show Jumping, Eventing, and Dressage, and was an active Pony Club member, achieving my Pony Club A Test. Throughout my career I have competed at numerous championships on a wide variety of horses, gaining invaluable experience in producing and developing horses for competition.

My background within the equestrian industry is diverse. My family established a riding school at our home in North Wales over 40 years ago, which is still running today. I later went on to lecture in Equine Studies at an Agricultural College, sharing my knowledge with the next generation of equestrians. Over the years I have also managed and run busy riding centres in both the UK and Canada.

I have spent a lifetime coaching riders with a wide range of ambitions, from leisure riders looking to improve their partnership with their horses, to those pursuing competitive goals across the disciplines.

Currently based in Botswana, I regularly travel to the UK to teach and am available for clinics internationally.

My coaching philosophy centres on a systematic, straightforward, and logical approach to training both horse and rider. I focus strongly on rider posture and the influence the rider has on the horse’s way of going, helping develop trust and communication within the partnership. I tailor my teaching style to the individual, creating clear structures and achievable goals that support long-term development.

Ultimately, my aim is to help riders build harmonious, respectful partnerships with their horses while developing confidence, understanding, and effective riding skills.