Stuart studied physiotherapy at Glasgow Caledonian University and after a couple of years in the NHS, moved to New Zealand to do a masters in manipulative physiotherapy at the University of Otago. Whilst on this course, Stuart met several influential people in the world of rugby and, after a couple of years in private practice, ended up working at Wellington Rugby. He stayed in New Zealand for six years working with the Wellington Lions and Hurricanes. Family prompted him to return to Scotland, working for Edinburgh rugby before moving on to become National Team Lead Physiotherapist at Scottish Rugby.