Back in the Saddle

Our Back in the Saddle coaching scheme offers group mentoring sessions for those wishing to reassess their careers in the equine veterinary industry. Change is sometimes good, be it forced or desired, and can take many forms, from a change in career path to minor adjustments which accommodate life outside of work. Commonly these changes occur when starting a family, or when an injury has been acquired, or simply when someone finds themselves dissatisfied with 'their lot' for whatever reason.

Whilst coaching can help in a fire-fighting situation to help get 'back in the saddle' professionally, we also hope to encourage members to utilise it in a pre-emptive way, enabling challenges to be navigated smoothly and changes to be seen as opportunities.

Try it and see!

Apply for Back in the Saddle coaching

How it works

Back in the Saddle is a six-month programme led by a team of individuals who have experienced working in equine practice and the challenges it presents, and have undergone coach training. Coachees will attend monthly online sessions where they carry out development exercises, share their experiences, learn from others and explore the options available to them, in a workshop-style setting.

Applications are now open for our summer intake, with the first session starting on Tuesday 11th June.

Please complete our online application form before 17th May to be considered.

Our coaches

Kate Blakeman

Gemma Dransfield

Sophie Eaden

Claire Goodban

Lucy Grieve

Your questions answered

Back in the Saddle coaching is available to all BEVA members more than 5 years qualified (i.e. six years and over) and is a free member benefit.

Coachees will attend six virtual coaching sessions taking place on:

Tuesday 11 June
Wednesday 3 July
Wednesday 14 August
Wednesday 4 September
Wednesday 9 October
Wednesday 6 November

Whether you are in need of a change, predicting the need, or simply not sure where your career is going, coaching can provide the support needed for individuals to grow and develop a sustainable future in the profession. This group style of coaching will allow you to openly discuss your experiences in a safe, non-judgemental environment, with trained coaches who understand your situation and can guide you through a process to achieving positive outcomes.

Typically those who find coaching to help, would be those encountering changes in work-life balance, for example starting a family, or finding themselves unable to work in their current role through injury. Some people may have simply lost their way in their career, or are struggling to find the enthusiasm and drive they perhaps once felt. There doesn't need to be a particular 'reason' to start coaching though, the benefits can be felt by one and all, regardless of their current situation!