Dressage & flatwork
Improve rhythm, balance, suppleness and communication through progressive, horse-centred training.
Freelance equestrian coaching across Hampshire
Better horses.
Better riders.
Thoughtful, practical coaching that builds confidence, improves performance and strengthens the partnership between horse and rider.
Training with purpose
Progress that feels clear, calm and achievable.
Every horse and rider combination is different. Stephen’s coaching meets you where you are, then gives you practical steps to move forward.
Whether you are refining your flatwork, preparing for competition, working through a confidence challenge or simply looking for more enjoyment in your riding, each session is shaped around your goals.
Coaching
Build the foundations. Develop the feel.
Individual guidance for riders who want lasting improvement, not quick fixes.
Jumping
Develop an organised approach, effective position and greater confidence over fences.
Pole work
Varied exercises to support balance, coordination, engagement and focus for horse and rider.
Confidence
Supportive coaching that breaks challenges into manageable steps and helps you trust your riding again.
Partnership
Better understanding, clearer aids and training choices that strengthen the relationship with your horse.
Coaching in practice
Clear guidance, observed in the moment.
Stephen works alongside each combination, using practical exercises and timely feedback to help riders develop feel, confidence and a clearer understanding of their horse.
“The goal is not simply to get through an exercise. It is to help horse and rider understand one another better.”
Stephen CresdeeThe approach
Clear coaching, built around you.
- Listen firstUnderstand your horse, your experience and what you want to achieve.
- Keep it practicalUse clear explanations and exercises you can continue between sessions.
- Build confidenceCreate progress without pressure, at a pace that suits both horse and rider.
Meet your coach
Stephen Cresdee
More than four decades of practical equestrian experience, from grassroots riding schools to international competition environments.
Stephen began riding at seven and has since worked across coaching, horse training, dressage judging, yard management and inclusive equestrian sport. He brings a calm eye, clear communication and a genuine understanding of how horses and people learn.
BHSAI
Met Police Horse Trainer
Dressage Judge
RDA Coach
Professional Diploma in Equestrian Studies
In the saddle
Practical experience across flatwork and jumping.
Stephen’s coaching is grounded in a lifetime of riding, training and developing horses—not simply observing from the side of the arena.
Equestrian journey
Experience built in the saddle, on the yard and beside the arena.
Stephen’s coaching draws on a career shaped by many types of horse, rider and working environment. That breadth allows him to see the whole partnership—not just a single exercise.
A lifelong foundation
Starting with horses at the age of seven, Stephen progressed through family yards, riding schools and major competition yards, gaining practical experience across disciplines with dressage at the heart of his work.
Training and competition
He has trained horses to Advanced Medium dressage, owned horses with Horse of the Year Show wins and worked alongside international showjumpers in the South Downs.
Coaching with purpose
From 1995 to 2000, Stephen worked with the Metropolitan Police as a police horse trainer and coach, based across the police stables at West Hendon, West Hampstead and Hammersmith. His wider background includes BHSAI teaching, dressage judging and supporting riders who progressed to Riding for the Disabled National level.
Yard leadership
As owner of Braintree Equestrian Centre from 2008 to 2012, Stephen combined horse care, coaching and yard management with structured digital records for health, veterinary care, worming, lessons and training.
A broad equestrian outlook
Stephen’s career has also included producing horses for the Sultan of Brunei, giving him experience of the standards, detail and adaptability required within international equestrian settings.
Where Stephen coaches
Freelance coaching across Hampshire.
Sessions are arranged at your yard or venue. Message Stephen with your location, what you would like help with and a little about you and your horse.
Start the conversation
Ready to take the next step?
Tell Stephen about you, your horse and what you would like to work on. He will reply to discuss your goals, location and suitable availability.
WhatsApp 07876 229258Training · Dressage · Jumping · Pole work · Confidence · Partnership