Siobhan Toon

About me

I have over 20 years’ coaching experience, alongside a broad background in the equine industry, from stud yards and riding schools to livery and private yards. I’ve turned out horses for riders competing at local level through to national and international competition. Personally, I’ve competed in showing to national level (including ROR and Welsh Cobs), as well as affiliated showjumping, and I have experience in dressage, cross-country, team chasing and eventing. 

I coach riders of all levels and keep my prices intentionally affordable, so support is accessible whether you’re starting out with your first horse or are a more experienced rider. I take a whole-horse approach and, if something doesn’t feel right, I’ll advise further investigation and can recommend trusted practitioners I’ve worked with for many years. 

I have previously worked as an RDA Group Instructor, giving me extensive experience supporting riders who require additional assistance or adapted teaching methods to suit their individual needs. This includes adapting horse training to the rider, such as working with horses trained primarily to voice commands when physical aids are limited. I also regularly work with both children and adults with Autism and ADHD, including those who are home educated or benefit from daytime sessions when yards are quieter, and there is less pressure from others being around. 

I’m happy to coach riders with or without an arena, in a field, or out hacking, I understand how limiting it can feel when looking for an instructor and not having an arena. I enjoy developing both horse and rider at all stages, working with flatwork, poles, jumping, group lessons, stable management and incorporating elements of natural horsemanship where appropriate. 

All lessons are adaptable and rider focused. I aim to keep things interesting, explain clearly, and highlight every small win so riders can see their progress. I place a strong emphasis on confidence, mindset, biomechanics and understanding, I work in a positive, no-pressure way that allows goals to evolve at the rider’s own pace. 

I work with riders to set their own realistic goals giving the rider and horse the chance to break it down into achievable steps, leaving them with things to work on in between sessions. Ongoing support is also available via phone or message, and I welcome questions, photos and videos between visits and there are no “stupid questions”.