Former Writtle University College student, Joshua Reilly, has taken the first step towards his dream career.
Joshua, who graduated from the Certificate of Higher Education in Thoroughbred Stud Operations course, is now working as a Trainee Stallion Man at Shadwell Stud in Norfolk. He gained a prestigious work placement with the company as part of his course at Writtle. His dedication, hard work and practical skills led to a job offer after graduation.
Joshua's role allows him to use the expert knowledge he gained while studying at Writtle University College.
He said: "I enjoyed the work experience side of the course at Writtle's stud. There was a great team and knowledgeable staff. The lecturers were also really helpful and approachable, making the experience more enjoyable."
"The practical dissection lectures were brilliant as they allowed us to understand the true workings of the horse and, being a visual learner, I found this beneficial. I obviously really enjoyed the Shadwell work experience as I wouldn't be where I am without this and my time at Writtle."
Over the last few months, Joshua has been part of Shadwell Stud's covering team. He helps to cares for a range of stallions including Eqtidaar, Muhaara and Tasleet and Mohaather, while maintaining the high quality of the facilities and holding or walking horses to assist the farrier. Joshua has also helped prepare Mohaather for showing, when the stallion appeared in a video and photoshoot.
The techniques Joshua leant at Writtle have proved invaluable. He said: "Lectures at Writtle allowed me to develop my practical skills and allowed me to understand why we did what we did with the horses and the vets."
"The Writtle horses had already taught me to handle mares of different temperaments and young horses that were more interesting to handle. Writtle allowed me to mature and develop before attending to a working lifestyle away from home."
Joshua has big plans for this future and wants to continue working within the equine sector. He said: "In the future, I wish to pursue the stallion man job and progress to being a stallion man for Shadwell Stud and have a permanent role at the stallion unit; I would like to keep up this role for a fair few years to progress my career within the industry".
Lecturer Caroline Farr said: "I am very proud of Josh, he has shown strong determination and a willing attitude within the workplace throughout his time based at Writtle's own Lordships Stud, this has no doubt led to him being recognised during his time on placement at Shadwell and resultantly being given this opportunity to work with the stallions so early in his career."
For more information on the Certificate of Higher Education in Thoroughbred Stud Operations, visit
writtle.ac.uk/Certificate-of-Higher-Education-in-Thoroughbred-Stud-Operations