The National Stud offers training courses for people who have a passion for horses and the Thoroughbred breeding industry.
The National Stud’s well established training department has delivered Thoroughbred specific courses for over 25 years. Graduates of the courses are highly regarded by industry employers; the vast majority securing employment immediately after graduating.
The Stud provides a variety of courses, many of which are free. The courses are aimed at those wishing to enter into a career in the industry or develop existing skills. The courses combine practical “hands on” experience with theoretical knowledge and the opportunity to gain industry qualifications.
The two main residential courses we run each year are:
Apprenticeship - an entry level course combining 9 weeks instruction at The National Stud with a paid and supervised work placement. This course is for school leavers and young people with limited equine experience.
Diploma in Stud Practice and Management (Diploma) - a 5 month residential course covering the Thoroughbred breeding season. Applicants need to be a minimum of 18 years old with practical experience of working with horses and ideally some stud or racing experience.
The Stud’s modern training facilities complement the fully commercial breeding operation to provide an excellent environment to gain experience of the industry while working under the instruction of experienced staff. Residential students are housed in Westbrook House at the stud; students also have use of the unique Joan Westbrook Lecture Theatre for lectures.
See the navigation bar on the right for further information on each of the courses currently available and career opportunities in the industry.
