Apprenticeship in England: The National Stud

England is a hot spot for many study abroad programs, with distinguished schools like University of Oxford, University of Cambridge and King’s College London- but what about a different type of study? The National Stud of England has an apprenticeship program that can open doors for those interested in entering the world of studs and racing.

The National Stud is a prestigious establishment that has been owned by the Jockey Club since 2008 and breeds some of the top competitors in the equine world. The studs that are stabled here are world-renowned and the facility itself is a major attraction. Located just outside of Newmarket, the facility has 500 acres filled with stunning stallions, playful foals (when in season) and their watchful mothers as well as training grounds for jockeys, future stable managers and aspiring race horses. 

What is it?

The Apprenticeship Course collaborates with the British Racing School to offer participants a way to break into the Thoroughbred racing industry. Through Government funding, this program offers partakers an opportunity to acquire work experience at a world-class facility, and provides them with work placement for at least a year and a half at an approved UK Thoroughbred stud facility, once they have completed the Pre-Apprenticeship course that runs for nine months. 

The certifications awarded after completion of the course include a Level 2 Diploma in Work Based Racehorse Care (Breeding Option), a Level 1 Functional Skills in Maths and English, a Level 2 Certificate in the Principles of Horse Care and Emergency First Aid at Work certification. 

Who is Eligible? 

In order to qualify for this program, you must be between 16 and 24 years old, have completed school year 11 or the equivalent and are not intending to resume full-time education, you must not yet have earned a degree, and you must not already possess an NVQ Level 2 in Horse Care or an equivalent. Another important requirement for eligibility is that you have to have been a resident of the EU for three years or more, in addition, applications are only accepted from permanent English address holders in order to comply with the regulations in place that allow Government funding to continue. 

What are my Responsibilities?

As an apprentice, you will have a plethora of duties to manage that will help prepare for entering the Thoroughbred racing and stud industry. You will be expected to attend practical and classroom training sessions that will cover topics including routine horse care, general stud duties,, farm maintenance, reproduction and parturition care, handling young stock, stable health and safety and professional conduct, working relationship and personal development. There will also be opportunities to work with Thoroughbred breeding stock, and to assist with preparation of breeding stock for sales. And for anyone who isn’t already savvy in the horse world, there is not a single doubt that you will be shoveling horse poop at least twice a day. 

What are the Costs and Accommodations?

This Apprenticeship Program has no costs for participants and The National Stud provides housing and all meals. However, you are responsible for personal costs and needs. 

Good Luck!

If you have a passion for Thoroughbred horses, learning how to properly care, breed and be successful in the industry, are prepared for rigorous training that holds high expectations for participants and will continue on in ANY weather conditions (this is England after all, rain is a staple) and are physically prepared to tackle intense and grueling manual labor then download an application form and send it to The Training Office, The National Stud, Newmarket, Suffolk, CB8 0XE. 

This is an amazing opportunity to earn important qualifications for working in the Thoroughbred and racing industries, as well as the chance to work with internationally renowned studs and after successful completion of the program, there are numerous career prospects that will be within reach! 

For any further questions regarding this Apprenticeship, please contact: students@nationalstud.co.uk