Applications are now open for ITBA internship schemes

Applications are now open for the Irish Thoroughbred Breeders' Association (ITBA) internship schemes for 2025/26 with competition for places expected to be strong.

The  organisation offers two schemes; the well-established and highly regarded ITBA internship and the junior internship, which is a more recent innovation and designed for Transition Year students.

The ITBA internship is a year-long in duration and fully paid with the successful applicants afforded the opportunity for two or three placements in different sectors of the bloodstock industry. Since it was set up in 2011, the scheme has become known as a proven platform for developing careers with former interns gaining experience at leading stud farms, sales companies, industry bodies and racecourses in Ireland.

Beginning in September, ahead of sales season, the internship will be divided in three semesters with the intern expected to produce a blog post for industry publications and short videos, designed to provide exposure for the intern and employer. Each employer will be required to appraise their intern and report to the ITBA.

Last year, the ITBA launched the junior internship for Transition Year students aged 16 and over. The aim is provide a link between students and stud farms in their locality and the ITBA will provide a short course in basic handling to students to equip them with some skills prior to embarking on their placement.

There will also be opportunities to shadow members of the ITBA Next Generation Committee during sales, at race meetings and other industry events.

Applications will close at 5pm on Friday, May 16 with interviews due to take place later in May and in June.

Full details for the schemes, along with application forms, are available on www.itba.ie. For further information contact Hannah Marks, education co-ordinator of the ITBA on hmarks@itba.ie or 045 877 543.

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