Accommodation
Accommodation for students is provided in Westbrook House. This newly refurbished facility offers comfortable en-suite bedrooms and communal social and study areas. Homemade meals are provided Monday to Friday. Diploma Students are expected to maintain facilities and cater for themselves over the weekend.
A day on the Diploma Course
Typically the day begins 6.30am working alongside the National Stud’s staff. Duties will usually include feeding, teasing, turning out, mucking out and assisting with veterinary examinations or the farrier.
During the afternoon students may attend practical workshops, external visits or continue with stud duties. These duties will vary depending on the time of year and yard and may include some estate maintenance work. The normal working day finishes between 4 and 5pm. Due to the nature of the work there will also be times when students will be expected to work out of hours, for example; late night feeds and foaling duties. At least twice a week, following the evening meal, students will attend the 6.30pm evening lecture programme.
Weekends
The Diploma course involves working full time as part of the Stud staff team, therefore time off will be one and a half days every fortnight. Weekend working hours may allow for additional time off during the day depending on yard requirements.
Allowance
Students receive an allowance from the Stud in recognition for the practical work which is paid weekly by BACS transfer during the course.
Uniform
Uniform is provided by the Stud for students on the programme.
Transport
Transportation to and from yard duties is provided by Stud minibuses.
Internet and computer access
It is reccommended students bring laptops. Wireless internet access is available in Westbrook House. Desk top computers are also available for students to use for course work.