Launched in 2015 by Racing to School in partnership with Aintree Racecourse and International Equestrian Centre, the Aintree Beacon Project uses the exciting sport of racing to support and enrich the lives of young people in the local community. Delivered through a series of educational activities for pupils from Year 5 through to Year 13, the project seeks to to not only generate interest and knowledge in racing but also to creating pathways to employment in racing for those wishing to pursue careers in the sport.

Headed by Carrie Ford,the Beacon focusses on the three feeder primary schools to Maricourt High School in order to ensure continuity with the programme content and enhance the pupils’ development.

With support from Aintree Racecourse and International Equestrian Centre, the Horseracing Betting Levy Board and Anne Duchess of Westminster’s Fund, this year alone the programme has reached 240 primary-aged pupils and 980 students at secondary school, with each year building upon the skills learnt the year before.