Mathew (3rd from left) and Thobani (3rd from right) with their fellow students and staff from The National Stud, Newmarket.

For all race goers, Royal Ascot is a must, and with both Frankel and Australian legend Black Caviar running, this years meeting was not to be missed. Amongst those lucky enough to see Black Caviars win, were two of IEPUK’s sponsored Tier 5 Government Authorised Exchange interns, Thobani Nzimande and Mathew de Kock. Since arriving at The National Stud from South Africa in January, Mathew and Thobani have gone from strength to strength. A day at Royal Ascot with their tutors and fellow students was certainly a great way to end their time in the UK. Thobani is the very first graduate from the Al Maktoum School of Excellence to receive a scholarship to The National Stud to take part in their world renowned diploma in Stud Practice and Management. We were also proud to hear that Thobani won The National Studs Best Practical Student Award! They have both worked hard to complete their training programme in such a short space of time!. Mathew will continue to work alongside his father Mike de Kock, one of South Africa’s top horseracing trainers and Thobani will be returning to continue his stud career. Congratulations to you both, we wish you all the best!