Elizabeth Rayner, Head Coach

Elizabeth started her dog training career 15 years ago when she got her first puppy - failed police dog GSD, Lola. From there her passion grew and she has rescued many other dogs since. She currently has Tipsy, a Deaf Dalmation, another Dalmatian named Pongo and a young cross breed called Lola.

In 2013, Elizabeth graduated from University with a 1st in Applied Animal Behavioural Science and Welfare which she thoroughly enjoyed and is where she really discovered her passion for learning theory and behaviour.

Elizabeth was running her own dog training and walking business for 5 years, but, ready for a new challenge, she has joined Dog School and is extremely excited for her role within such an influential charity.

Jessica Sebright, Senior Coach

Jessica began volunteering at Dogs Trust in September 2018 as a Kennel Assistant which gave her a real insight into working with animals and working as part of the Dogs Trust organisation. She has also previously volunteered as a falconer working with birds of prey. Throughout this period, she spent a large portion of time training owls, hawks and falcons, alongside presenting shows to educate the public on these fascinating animals.

In February 2021, Jessica completed a MSc in Animal Welfare and Conservation, and during the course she discovered her passion for animal behaviour and training. In her spare time, she enjoys training in Kyokushin Karate, where she regularly compete in regional and national competitions.

Simon Richardson, Coach

Simon began volunteering at Dogs Trust in September 2019 assisting the Dog School with their classes. He also works as a Volunteer with Guide Dogs and the Cinnamon Trust.

Prior to working for Dogs Trust Simon has always had family dogs, and continues to walk a number of dogs. His former role as a client relationship manager in a finance company was nowhere near as interesting as working as a coach for Dogs Trust.

Simon has always had a passion for teaching having previously been an Archery Coach and having run a series of Balloon Modelling and Magic classes after school classes.

Sophie Dell, Coach

Sophie’s passion for dogs truly began when her family adopted their first rescue dog Roxie (a beautiful Belgian Shepherd). Since then, she has owned a variety of rescues including her two current dogs Bella (a cocker spaniel x Jack Russell) and Rosie (a rescue greyhound from the racing industry).

Sophie has worked with animals for the past 5 years, in roles such as zookeeper, animal presenter and kennel assistant. In 2020, she completed an Animal Management Degree where she learnt about a variety of species. After leaving University, Sophie worked as a rehabilitation assistant at a charity specialising in Romanian street dogs, inspiring her to further her career in Canine Behaviour and Training.