Meet the Discovery Team

Experienced, Qualified & Supportive

Our experienced Discovery team supports young people who may be struggling in mainstream education or developing essential life skills. All our facilitators hold the OCN Level 3 Diploma in Equine Assisted Services, with three qualified to assess the Diploma. Several are licensed Thrive Practitioners, and our team includes experienced former and current teachers. Together, we combine education, equine expertise and wellbeing support to create a safe, supportive environment where young people can build confidence, develop skills and thrive.

Jo

Head of Discovery and DSL

Jo Harding joined HorseWorld in June 2026 as Head of Discovery, bringing with her more than 20 years of experience in education and youth development.

Her experience has given her a strong understanding of the challenges that can prevent young people from reaching their potential.

Jo is particularly passionate about providing the right support, encouragement and opportunities to help young people overcome barriers, discover what they are capable of and find a positive sense of direction.

“I'm passionate about first chances, second chances and every chance after that. Too many young people have experienced poverty, trauma or other challenges beyond their control and haven't had the opportunities that others take for granted. Every young person deserves the chance to be seen, valued and supported to realise their potential.”

Sharon

Discovery Development Lead

Sharon has dedicated her career to working with horses and inspiring young people through education. After studying at Hartpury College, she gained extensive equestrian experience, including teaching Equine Studies and working within HorseWorld’s Visitor Centre.

Sharon believes horses offer unique opportunities for learning and personal growth. She is passionate about recognising individual strengths and creating positive experiences, particularly for young people who may find traditional education challenging.

Sharon played a key role in developing the Discovery Programme and is always looking for new opportunities to help Discovery grow and make an even greater difference. She recently led the launch of our OCN Level 1 Certificate in Skills for Professions in Animal Care.

“I believe horses are exceptional teachers. They help young people build confidence, develop self-belief, and understand the importance of trust, communication, and respect. Watching a young person discover their own strengths through their connection with a horse is one of the most rewarding parts of my role.”

Lorraine

Discovery Operations Coordinator and DDSL

Lorraine began her career in the equestrian world as a Trainee Riding Instructor in Cannock, later gaining experience as a groom at a show jumping yard before moving to Bristol and into education.

She spent many rewarding years supporting young people and adults to build confidence, develop skills and recognise their potential for further education and employment.

In 2024, Lorraine joined HorseWorld as our Discovery Operations Coordinator. Her warm personality, positive outlook and fantastic organisational skills play a vital role in keeping the Discovery Programme running smoothly and ensuring the best possible experiences for both our young people and horses.

“Great things begin when young people recognise their potential and believe in what they can achieve. At Discovery, that belief can be the first step towards unlocking what’s possible.”

Deborah

Senior Facilitator and DDSL

Deborah joined HorseWorld Discovery in 2020, building on her background in supportive roles within education. Most recently, she worked as Sixth Form Lead in an independent school, where she helped students with learning difficulties prepare for further education, employment, and develop important life skills and wellbeing. Her role at HorseWorld brings together her professional skills, life experiences of raising a family, and her passion for horse riding. As Deputy Safeguarding Lead (DSL), Deborah is committed to ensuring that every young person feels safe, supported, and encouraged to reach their full potential.

Kayleigh

Facilitator

Kayleigh has been a dedicated member of HorseWorld for over 15 years, caring for and training our much-loved horses. Her passion for equine welfare and her natural ability to connect with young people make her an invaluable part of the team. In 2021, after stepping in as interim Yard Supervisor for nine months, Kayleigh joined the Discovery Team. She went on to qualify as a Discovery Facilitator and now thrives on working directly with the young students who visit HorseWorld. Alongside her professional experience, Kayleigh is also a proud mum of two. Her energy, enthusiasm, and love of sports shine through in everything she does – whether she’s supporting the horses, inspiring young people, or bringing positivity to the team.

Kara

Facilitator

Kara combines her role at HorseWorld with her work as a part-time teacher in South Bristol and Forest School Leader, bringing together her experience in education, outdoor learning and her lifelong passion for horses. This allows her to support children and young people to thrive in alternative learning environments beyond the classroom.

Prior to her current roles, Kara was the Manager of a local Forest School nursery, where under her leadership the nursery was graded Outstanding. This role strengthened her passion for outdoor learning and her belief in the positive impact that nature-based experiences can have on children’s wellbeing, confidence, and development.

Kara has owned a variety of ponies since she was very young, and spending time outdoors and connecting with nature has always been a big part of her life. Her lifelong connection with horses, alongside her experience in education and outdoor learning, makes her role at HorseWorld a natural fit.

“Not all classrooms have four walls. I’m passionate about giving children the opportunity to learn and grow through experiences with horses and the outdoors—building confidence, resilience and connection in an environment where they can truly thrive.”

Sarah

Facilitator

Sarah came from a background of working with SEN children on a 1-1 basis. By joining the HorseWorld Discovery team in March 2025, it has been possible for her to blend love for and experience of working with both horses and children. Besides travelling and having two children of her own, she is a qualified yoga teacher and herbal medicine practitioner. She values spending time in nature as a way of balancing modern life.

Tess

Facilitator

Tess joined HorseWorld Discovery in December 2024 having previously worked as a Primary School Teacher in the state and independent sector and also as a tutor for children with SEND. She has worked with and owned horses for most of her life and now enjoys teaching for Mendip Farmers Pony Club as well as having three horses of her own. Tess really enjoys the combination of teaching and working with horses at HorseWorld.

Louise

Discovery Groom

Lou joined as a Discovery Facilitator in 2019. She now works part time as a Discovery Groom whilst studying BSc (Hons) Equine Science at Hartpury University. Lou enjoys the variety of her role and seeing the interactions between horses and students. In her spare time, Lou plays bass guitar for musical theatre productions and likes to spend time with her two cats.

Christie

Discovery Groom

Christie’s journey with HorseWorld Discovery began in 2016, when she first joined as a student on the six-week programme. Inspired by her experience, she chose to stay on as a volunteer for six months, supporting the team and assisting with the horses. Her dedication and passion for equine care led to an Equine Groom Apprenticeship at HorseWorld, which she successfully completed before accepting a full-time role with the Discovery Team. Today, Christie is responsible for caring for the Discovery horses and ensuring they are happy, healthy, and ready to support the young people who come to the programme. She especially enjoys training potential new Discovery horses and finds it rewarding to see them grow in confidence as they begin working with the students.