News

Coach Q&A... with British Horse Society coach Pippa Greenwood

Wednesday, 24 June 2026

As part of UK Coaching Week 2026, we’re catching up with the brilliant coaches on the ground who help us and our wonderful equine partners thrive.

Inspired by this year’s theme, ‘Purposeful Play’, we’re looking at how bringing a sense of fun into sessions can make learning more effective.

We chatted with Pippa Greenwood, a British Horse Society (BHS) coach to find out more:

Can you give some background on your equestrian experience?

I've ridden since childhood and have been fortunate to enjoy a wide variety of equestrian experiences along the way. I spent many years in The Pony Club, including progressing through their examination system, rode for my university team, and even spent some time working with horses in Iceland. In recent years, my main focus has been dressage, and I particularly enjoy retraining and producing Thoroughbreds after racing.

I'm now a Stage 3 Complete Coach, Stage 4 Event Rider and hold the Stable Managers and Business Managers qualifications. 

What inspired you to become a coach and gain qualifications? 

The coaching system inspires you to develop your knowledge outside of your own context, and that was really important to me.  I learn so much every time I go out for exam training or on CPD (continuing professional development), so that's encouraged me to continue on the journey.  

Coaching in an equestrian setting involves so much more than simply passing knowledge on to riders. It requires a wide range of technical expertise to support both horse and rider, which is why I'm proud to be a BHS coach. The pathway encourages continual learning and development, which I both really enjoy and champion. 

What did you learn through completing your coaching qualifications?

I began the BHS examination pathway around 13 years ago, dipping in and out of it alongside other commitments, so the system has played a significant role in shaping me as both a horsewoman and a coach.

I really value the awareness of safety for your horse and rider that is at the forefront of the BHS coaching system - to have fun with our horses, you need to be safe!

As coaches, we have the responsibility to act as custodians of our horses and our sport, championing ethical horsemanship while recognising the incredible value that horses bring to our lives.  

What advice would you give to someone at the beginning of their coaching journey?  

You don't have to have all the answers! The ability to listen and seek support from more experienced coaches is key.

On the theme of UK Coaching Week 2026 'Purposeful Play':

How important is 'play' for learning?

Fundamentally, riding should be fun . Embedding 'play' is a fantastic way of supporting riders of all levels to develop confidence. It's also lovely to see our equine partners get involved and enjoy the activities in our sessions.

How might you embed 'play' within your coaching sessions? 

Play looks slightly different depending on who the session is for but 'round the world' is great for all ages to develop balance and confidence. 

When developing horses' confidence, I like to use obstacle courses (out of normal things you might meet on the road), which can both be fun and also have a real-world benefit.

Feeling inspired?

You might be just starting out or looking to progress your career, there are many options to progress within the coaching pathway and develop your knowledge and skills. Find out more and take your next step.