THERE is plenty of scope for career change and development within the equestrian sector. One of the most popular and highly regarded courses for students looking to upskill and expand their options is the Godolphin Flying Start programme.

Graduates have gone on to a number of different roles within the industry, many are working in management positions with different stud farms and bloodstock agencies, others are working in marketing and media. Some graduates also have established themselves as trainers.

The course immerses students in the industry and helps them build up valuable experience and contacts, giving graduates a range of career and employment options.

COURSE OVERVIEW

The Godolphin International Thoroughbred Leadership Programme is a two year full-time management training programme with lectures, practical experience and visits. The course gives students global experience with practical horse handling taking place in Ireland, England, Kentucky, Australia and Dubai.

Students gain experience working in breeding and racing operations in each location, including daily care of mares, foals and racehorses. Students also gain administration and management experience, giving them a well-rounded view of the industry.

Skills such as horse care and handling, veterinary and farriery are also assessed as part of the programme.

Students study equine anatomy and physiology as part of the Godolphin Flying Start programme. This aspect of the course takes place in University College Dublin. Students also study equine nutrition at the University of Kentucky.

Over the two years students complete modules in business management, including modules in finance, marketing and technology. Leading industry experts in bloodstock, breeding and racing also lecture at different points in the course.

Students also get to visit leading facilities while they are based in each country.

There is an emphasis placed on leadership and communication during the Godolphin Flying Start Programme.

The programme aims to develop public speaking and communication, there is a leadership module in the Macquaire University Graduate School of Management as part of the programme.

As is the case with many equine courses, there is a placement opportunity with the programme. Students complete a 12 week externship. This is done outside of the Godolphin organisation and is done between the USA, Australia and Europe.

APPLICATIONS

If you are interested in applying for the Godolphin Flying Start Programme, more information can be found on www.godolphinflyingstart.com.

Applicants are required to have a Level 8 Degree and between one and three years employment experience, or a Level 7 Degree and between three and five years employment, or a Level 6 qualification and at least 10 years employment.

Interviews for places on the course will take place between the end of February and the middle of April this year.

Locations and dates for the interviews are on the Godolphin website www.godolphinflyingstart.com.