The program kicks off with a three-month practical and theoretical learning
block at the Australian Racing and Equine Academy (Richmond NSW), with students
residing at Western Sydney University (Richmond Campus).The students are
then allocated to a leading trainer where they spend 4.5 months on their first
paid work experience in a racing stable, followed by 4.5 months on a leading
stud farm.Students are then guided and mentored into an area which
interests them upon graduation.The first intake of students began the Explorer Program in February this year and they've already received instruction from the likes of Gai Waterhouse and Hugh Bowman during the initial three-month intensive learning block.Students are currently completing the first of their two work placements.
Katie Sharp, a 20-year-old from near Newcastle says applying for the Explorer Cadetship Program has been the best decision she's ever made.
"I've learned a wealth of knowledge and have been given the best building blocks to build a career in an industry I love," Sharp said.
"I am beyond grateful to Thoroughbred Industry Careers for creating this program where I have made lifelong friends and gained knowledge that I will take with me throughout my whole life and career."
Chris Waller is one of the leading figures in Australia's Thoroughbred Industry providing expertise and opportunities to the students.
"This program gives young people to opportunity to learn and in this instance follow their dreams of working with horses which can result in a very pleasurable and rewarding job", stated Waller.
"Modern life seems to have separated the city from the county and this is a good way for people to experience the pleasure working with animals and the opportunities it brings."
The Explorer Program is an initiative of Thoroughbred Industry Careers (TIC) , which was set up to in late 2018 to promote careers in the thoroughbred industry and Chief Executive Lindy Maurice is thrilled with the progress of the first group of students.
"The growth and the development of the Cadets while learning from the best teachers at the Australian Racing and Equine Academy and experts in the industry has been phenomenal and they have a bright future ahead," Maurice said.
"We've had many standout students in the first intake who are now on the radar of the best trainers and stud farms in Australia and when these students finish the course in another nine months there will be great opportunities waiting for them.
"There is no better pathway for young people considering a career in the thoroughbred racing and breeding industry than the Explorer Program and we can't wait to welcome our next cohort of students."
Applications for the next intake of 30 students will close on July 8, 2019.
Further information about the Explorer Program and how to apply can be found at: www.tbindustrycareers.com.au/explorer-cadetship2/
