For 25-year-old Ben Powell, a degree in Equestrian Sports Performance at University Centre Reaseheath (UCR) is more than an academic achievement. It’s the culmination of years of persistence, dedication, and overcoming challenges.
Originally from West Kirby, Ben’s educational journey began at Hayfield Primary School and later Clare Mount Specialist Sports College, institutions that supported his diagnosis of autism and dyspraxia.
But it was at Wirral Riding Centre where his early love for horses blossomed as he found that being around them was calming and rewarding.
“The communication with horses felt natural and the staff were very kind,” Ben recalls, explaining that this early experience sparked a lifelong passion.
His Reaseheath journey began when he chose to study the college’s Level 2 Equine programme in 2019 and over the years Ben steadily progressed through each level, graduating with his BSc (Hons) in Equestrian Sports Performance from University Centre Reaseheath.
During the celebrations at Chester Cathedral, Ben was also awarded the prestigious UCR Dean’s Award for Outstanding Achievement and Personal Progression.
Reflecting on the honour, Ben says: “It means more than words can say. I believe it can show others who are on the autistic spectrum that you can achieve anything you put your mind towards through sheer hard work and determination if the right support is in place. I wanted to make a difference, to not be defined by the label of autism but by my own merit. This is something I feel incredibly passionate about for myself and others.”
Ben’s journey wasn’t without challenges. Navigating his autism and dyspraxia in an academic setting required strategies, resilience, and the dedicated support of UCR’s Higher Education Support Team (HEST).
He recalls the initial difficulty in understanding verbal instructions and the anxiety around group discussions.
“At first, I just went off at a tangent, or due to working memory issues, I’d start writing a sentence and completely forget what I was trying to say,”
Ben explains. His Dictaphone became an essential tool, allowing him to record lectures and verbal advice to process at his own pace. “The staff got very used to me and my Dictaphone,” he adds.
One of Ben’s most memorable academic experiences was discovering his interest in equine biomechanics through his former lecturer, Sarah Loveday-Lovell.
“I found my niche,” he says. “I became passionate about equine welfare and understanding how the way a horse is ridden impacts its skeletal and muscular structure over time.”
He also fondly recalls the support of his peers, who helped him collect data for his dissertation, showing him that his contributions were valued.
Ben’s determination to succeed, reflected in his impressive 98.9% attendance rate, was bolstered by a strong network of family, friends, and UCR staff. “With people who care and understand me, I can be myself, and this gives me confidence in my academic studies and personal development,” he shares.
Recognising that a quieter environment would support his final-year goals, Ben chose to move home, where he could focus fully on his studies. “My predicted grade went from a third class to a 2:1 just from knuckling down and working hard with support from family at home and University Centre Reaseheath,” he says.
Today, Ben is thrilled to start his career as an Equine Events Assistant Coordinator at Reaseheath College’s Equine Events Office. With his strong foundation in equine biomechanics and a degree in hand, he’s excited about contributing to the field and continuing to advocate for equine welfare.
His advice to other students who may face learning challenges is clear and heartfelt. “Do not be defined by whatever label society may place upon you. If you can dream it, you can do it. Work hard and remain passionate, and you will succeed.”
Visit our blog listings page or view our latest blogs below.
Animal Behaviour
