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UK Coaching Week: The power of holistic coaching

Tuesday, 30 April 2024

Holistic coaching: Developing skills for life.

Coaches improve our performance and teach us new tactics within our sport, but the positive impact of a holistic coach means participants develop skills for life.

This UK Coaching Week we spoke to a coach who is part of the British Equestrian coaching bursary scheme and is working to gain her Pony Club Coaching Certificate Level One.

Jo’s story 

Jo’s life was transformed when she had the opportunity to work at an equestrian centre as an apprentice at the age of 16, following a difficult upbringing. Struggling with education and living in poverty, this new job provided a gateway to a fulfilling career, working with horses and young people.

Now, after years of working within the equestrian industry, Jo has acquired a passion for working to help young people at risk of falling out of education. Through equine assisted learning, Jo helps participants join a community in which they can grow and develop, “I have used my journey to start inspiring and coaching young people and I’m currently coaching a young person on the British Horse Society’s ‘Changing Lives Through Horses’ programme.”

Coming back to education later in life, Jo has achieved a degree in Equine Science and is working towards gaining a masters degree at Nottingham Vet School whilst pursuing her coaching qualifications. “I have realised that my story is of value to other young people who are where I once was.” Jo’s story proves that perseverance and a supportive community can sow the seeds for achievement and growth in all aspects of life. Using the coaching bursary, Jo is keen to develop as a coach and work with more participants to grow valuable life skills.

“Sharing life experience in a positive way transforms young people's lives.”

Jo uses her experiences to help her understand the people she works with and prioritises long-term development of participants, “Being a good coach is about sharing experience and collaborating with young people to change their own lives and achieve their goals.”

Holistic coaching is about developing the whole person, Jo’s story demonstrates the importance of a coach who goes beyond sporting experience, unlocking potential and helping others in all aspects of their lives.

#ThanksCoach 

To all those who give their time to help deliver sport and physical activity across the nation and support their participants through all aspects of their lives –This UK Coaching Week, remember to say 'Thanks Coach'.

Find out what it means to be a holistic coach.