Discover the Future of Equine Talent Webinar

Live Webinar on Equine Stud Farm Manager Apprenticeships

Thursday, 21 May 2026 | 7:00 PM

Click here to register for the webinar!

Join industry leaders and education experts for an insightful live webinar exploring the exciting opportunities within the *Equine Stud Farm Manager Apprenticeship and the significant benefits this programme can offer both employers and apprentices across the equine sector.

Hosted live in studio by AnneMarie Butler, Teagasc Head of Education, this informative and engaging session will provide valuable guidance for employers, breeders, stud managers, and anyone interested in developing the next generation of equine professionals.

*  The Equine Stud Farm Manager programme is in the final stages of development subject to NAO and QQI approval

A Collaborative Industry Initiative

The Equine Stud Farm Manager Apprenticeship has been developed through a unique collaboration between Teagasc and leading organisations across the Irish equine industry, including Horse Sport Ireland, Irish Thoroughbred Breeders’ Association, Horse Racing Ireland, Godolphin Flying Start, Irish National Stud and Coolmore Stud.

Together, they have created a dynamic three-year, work based apprenticeship programme leading to a Level 7 Bachelor Degree, designed to support the future growth and sustainability of Ireland’s Thoroughbred and Sport Horse sectors.

This innovative programme combines practical, hands on learning with academic study, giving apprentices the opportunity to build real world experience while developing the skills needed for future management roles within the industry.

What Apprentices will gain?

Participants in the programme will develop expertise across a wide range of stud farm and equine management areas, including:

• Hands-on stud and breeding management
• Foaling, covering and sales preparation
• Horse fitness and welfare management
• Coordinating veterinary care and treatments
• Team leadership and people management skills
• Business operations, compliance and farm efficiency

Graduates will leave the programme equipped to take on leadership roles within breeding and equine enterprises, helping to raise standards and strengthen the long term success of the Irish equine breeding industry.

Benefits for Employers

Employers who participate in the apprenticeship programme will benefit from having a dedicated apprentice embedded within their business over a three year period, gaining valuable practical and management experience while contributing to day to day operations.

The programme also offers access to potential government grants and bursaries, subject to eligibility, helping employers invest in future talent while supporting workforce development and retention.

Meet the Panel

Joining AnneMarie Butler, Teagasc Head of Education in studio will be:

• Peter O’Reilly, CEO, Irish Thoroughbred Breeders’ Association
• Marcella Phelan, National Apprenticeship Programme Specialist, Teagasc
• Kate Solon, Assistant Principal of Equine, Kildalton College

Key Topics to be Discussed

• What is an Equine Stud Farm Manager Apprenticeship Programme?
• Why should employers get involved?
• What are the benefits for employers and apprentices?
• How apprenticeships are helping address skills gaps in the industry
• Career pathways and progression opportunities within the equine sector
• The long-term future of workforce development in Irish equine breeding

Who Should Attend?

This webinar will be particularly valuable for:

• Stud farm owners and managers
• Breeders and equine employers
• Equine industry professionals
• Individuals interested in apprenticeship pathways
• Anyone passionate about the future of the Irish equine sector

Register Your Place Today!

Don’t miss this opportunity to hear directly from leading voices in equine education and industry development.

Date: Thursday, 21 May 2026  |  Time: 7:00 PM

Click here to register for the webinar!

Watch

Tim Ashmore, Principal, Teagasc Kildalton College outlines below what you can expect from the upcoming webinar.