Nicola Kidd Equestrian Education logo with gold winged horses and initials 'NK' on a red background, accompanied by the text 'An Alternative Provision with Animals.'
Four children in safety vests standing in front of a brown and white pony at a fenced outdoor area.
Child leading a pony through colorful traffic cones on grass

About Us…

We are based in a great location at the heart of East & West Lancashire. Nestled in a small hamlet in the beautiful countryside we provide an alternative provision for children and young people not in education, employment, or training. Helping children and young people re-engage in education with the use of animals, adult mentoring, and support. The great outdoors is of great benefit to anyone struggle with the mainstream school setting. Whether that is because of ASD, ADHD or other complex needs and or disabilities we offer the right support, in the right place, at the right time, to help each child on their individual journey.

The Animal Team…

…consists of two therapy ponies, Ruby and Ellie, who help guide us throughout our day. Our chickens, Jackie, Judith, Betty & Speckle, sheep Penny & Poppy and of course mans best friend Red, all offering a helping hand in supporting our students achieve their aspirations.

The Course Facilitator…

Nicola Kidd has a National Diploma in Equine Science and Business management, a BHS PTI and has worked in the equestrian industry for almost 30 years. Teaching a vast range of ages, needs and abilities she has been certified in teaching since 1999. Nicola has trained horses from backing to Medium level Dressage and a wealth of experience in the body language of horses. Nicola also has a full DBS Enhanced Disclosure, NSPCC SEN Safeguarding cert. . and Equine specific first aid training.

The Education Specialist…

Joanne Day. Here at NKEE we are extremely fortunate to have the support of Joanne Day, highly experienced former SENCO / Assistant Headteacher and Specialist Teacher who has supported young people and children across Lancashire for over 20 years. Jo has worked as a ‘SENDO’ and Principal Officer for the LA, so possess a strong understanding of legislation regarding the Code of Practice and LA processes.  Over my 14 years working in schools, (including SLT within a Pupil Referral Unit) I have successfully applied for over 30 EHCPs and have been centre manager for a medical school provision, working collaboratively with LEHSS and CAMHS to help support those young people unable to access mainstream schooling due to unmet needs (often rooted in SEMH / unidentified Autism / ADHD). Joanne has a wealth of knowledge and experience here is a glance at her accolades…

SEMH, ASD, EBSA and SENCO Support / Specialist Assessor (exam access)

I am a level 7 qualified specialist assessor (education / ability and attainment) and my current course of study is MSc in Psychology (part time) which I am hoping may lead me to work as an Educational Psychologist longer term.

Qualifications

BA HONS History
PGCE – KS3&4 – Edgehill University

Autism Next Steps – Concept Training
Level 7 CPT3A Middlesex University (Real Training) and British Psychological Society Registration

LEHSS – SEMH training in Anxiety, Anger, Self Harming and Resilience

EBSA – Lancashire County Council
MSc Psychology Conversion (current)

With this abundance of experience and knowledge in both fields we can deliver a life changing and educational provision for children and young people.

Chickens walking on green grass in a garden with wicker chairs and a stone wall in the background.
Sheep with two lambs in a straw-filled pen
A woman with long curly hair and a black jacket gently touching foreheads with a brown horse at sunset.
Close-up of a brown Icelandic horse with a full mane.

'Right support; Right place; Right time'