Meet the Student: Maddie Howell

The purchase of an ex-racehorse with a diagnosis of Kissing Spines, inspired Maddie Howell to train in equine sports massage.

Maddie Howell is the first graduate of our new Level 4 equivalent Diploma in Equine Sports Massage and she’s now preparing to step up to the next level, working towards a Diploma in Animal Physiotherapy.

Q. WHAT MOTIVATED YOU TO TRAIN WITH TCAP?

A: I bought an ex racehorse who had been through ‘kissing spine’ surgery, had sacroiliac pain and ulcers (the lot!), so I had a physio out to support my horses recovery,. In fact, she had set up equine massage class for horse owners which I really enjoyed. In fact, I became obsessed with learning more about how to care for my horse: I wanted to know everything! I would see my friends horses, and I wanted to help them too. I then saw myself, wanting to do this everyday. I completed my BHS exams, teaching alongside animal photography and yard work, and realised I didn’t enjoy the yard work but I really enjoyed the massage. It was then I decided that I wanted to turn this into a career.

Q: WHAT MADE YOU CHOOSE TCAP AS YOUR PATHWAY TO PROFESSIONAL PRACTICE?

A: Catriona Goulding recommended TCAP to me: she came to treat my horse, trained with TCAP and previously provided training to TCAP students in Scotland. Her recommendation was the deciding factor.

Q: HOW DID YOU FIND THE BALANCE OF ONLINE STUDY AND IN-PERSON PRACTICAL TRAINING?

A: It took me a little while to get into the written work, but then I went on my training days and trained with Rachel Sivyer, and that really spurred me on to do the next bit. The presentations were brilliant and I liked the fact we were given recommendations for certain books. The online learning system worked really well: it was easy to access and download information and they layout was really good.

Q: HOW DID YOU FIND THE PRACTICAL TRAINING?

My first week of practical training was down in England and involved learning days and reflective personal reports. When I came back for the second time, I had four days training with an exam on the final day. We were tested constantly throughout the week, which was quite intense, but good!

Q. WHAT DO YOU HOPE TO DO NOW?

A: I am planning to start the animal physiotherapy course in September and Catriona has organised some work shadowing/training days with me to build my confidence and to meet people in the area.  I’m now in the process of designing my business logo and exploring how to promote my service. For now, it will be a blend of working in hospitality (the family business) with equine massage, but I hope that come September, I will have a few clients and may be able to reduce my full time work. 

I really enjoyed all of it: I haven’t studied since school and this was a real passion so I enjoyed the whole thing.

Maddie Howell