SCHEME PROVIDING THE PERFECT SPRINGBOARD FOR HORSE ENTHUSIASTS

FOR the past eight years, the Irish Thoroughbred Breeders’ Association Next Generation Apprenticeship Scheme has been established as a proven platform for young breeding and racing enthusiasts to carve out a very successful and challenging career in the Irish bloodstock industry.

Up to 2018, each year two candidates were selected to work in three key areas of the industry over a 12-month period.

With staffing crisis at an all-time high, the scheme has now undergone an overhaul and the 2019 programme will offer up to 10 individuals the opportunity of one year’s paid employment on a stud farm.

Throughout the placement, apprentices will learn the basic skills required to work on a stud farm. This will involve both personal and professional mentoring from both employer and the ITBA. Included in the apprenticeship will be training days and seminars to assist with career development.

Commenting on the scheme, Apprenticeship Coordinator Isabelle Carroll said: “Over the last number of months, we have been approached by our members highlighting the difficulty with recruiting entry-level staff. We are very excited about the scheme, which is an invaluable opportunity for those interested in pursuing a career in the thoroughbred breeding industry.

“Together with mentoring students and onthe-job training, the scheme will provide guidance throughout the year to maximise learning outcomes.”

With the programme due to commence on January 21, potential apprentices must register their interest by December 7. A selection process will then follow shortly after.

An induction course is due to take place in early January before the start of the programme. The application form is available to download on or across their social media platforms.

For further information, contact Isabelle Carroll on 045 877543 or email