From the Paddock

There’s something satisfying about walking into a tidy tack room. Saddles stored in their covers, gleaming and ready for the next ride. Bridles hung neatly, grooming tools organised, everything in its place.

Last weekend, I spent a few hours reorganising my tack room. I sorted brushes, cleaned gear, and made sure everything I use daily was easy to access. My saddle is never dusty — I keep it under a cover to protect it — but it still feels good to check it over and know it’s ready.

As I worked, I thought about how much this mirrors my approach to teaching. When my classroom (physical or digital) is organised, I feel calmer, more focused, and more able to give my best to my students. Just like a tidy tack room sets me up for a smooth ride, an orderly classroom sets me and my students up for a positive day.

Student wellbeing often comes down to small, consistent actions: greeting them warmly, providing structure, giving clear expectations, and ensuring they have what they need to learn. Horses thrive on clarity and consistency too. If I approach my horse with calm energy and clear cues, he feels secure. If I approach my students in the same way, they feel safe to learn and grow.

Whether it’s preparing for a lesson or a ride, the principle is the same: the work we put in behind the scenes makes a visible difference in the moments that matter.