Brooke Bennett has become the first student to graduate from the Level 4 Certification Breeding Qualification.
Supported by Windsor Park Stud, Brooke enrolled in the apprenticeship immediately on leaving school. The NZQA recognised course covers all aspects of the breeding industry over its 22-month time frame.
“It is definitely a relief to get it finished, especially as we are in such a busy time of year on the farm,” Bennett said.
“The course gave me an appreciation for just how much goes on at a stud farm and why we do the things we do. It was a real eyeopener as to how the industry works and I especially enjoyed the foaling and breeding aspects.
“Rachel (Murray) and Rodney (Schick) were very supportive while I was completing the apprenticeship. They made sure I have good exposure to all elements of the operation and gave us the opportunity to talk to the farriers and vets to increase our knowledge.
“Rachel made time each week to sit down and talk about what we were doing and go over any questions we might have had.”
The apprenticeship gave Bennett the confidence to apply for Vet School and the 20-year-old will head to Palmerston North next year to begin her studies.
“The apprenticeship gave me an idea of where I wanted to head in life. I found I had more of an interest in the vet and breeding work which pushed me to apply for vet school.”
NZTBA CEO Justine Sclater said Bennett’s graduation was an important milestone for the NZTBA and its education pathway.
“This is a significant achievement and we are very proud of Brooke,” Sclater said.
“We’ve been working with our education sub-committee, Sally Waters and Amy Johnson from NZTR to develop our education pathway that benefits the students and is valued by employers.
“The apprenticeship has been an important steppingstone in Brooke’s career and we wish her all the best for the future. I’d also like to congratulate Windsor Park Stud for their level of support given to Brooke during her studies, this has been instrumental in Brooke’s success.” -Amie Best, NZBTA
