TRAINING TO WORK IN THE RACING INDUSTRY
‘Not your typical job’
Racing is the second largest spectator sport in the country and offers a range of diverse and rewarding careers. Whether you want to work directly with horses – or be more office based – there are opportunities at every level with excellent industry training and ongoing support.
Training and pathways into the industry
For those young people who want a practical role working with horses the industry offers stable staff training at the British Racing School in Newmarket, the National Horseracing College in Doncaster, and the Scottish Racing Academy in Scotland. During the initial residential course you will receive training on how to look after and ride racehorses and on successful completion of the course you will be guaranteed a job in the racing industry where you will complete your apprenticeship programme. Although previous experience with horses can be an advantage it is not essential, and what’s more the training is free of charge.
For those who are interested in thoroughbred breeding the National Stud based in Newmarket offers specialist training for stud staff.
Other training providers include Haddon Training which offers work-based learning and Warwickshire College which offers Higher Education opportunities in horseracing.
By continuing your training with one of these registered training providers when you leave school you will be satisfying the new Government requirements to stay in education or training until you are 18.
Career progression and opportunities
Career progression in the industry is supported by training courses available to stud and stable staff to take them on from one level to the next – or move into a different area of employment. There are also courses available for those wishing to progress to management roles or to work within racing administration.
For those who plan to go to university, the British Horseracing Authority has an exciting and well-established Graduate Scheme which sees around 20 graduates a year go through a two week programme followed by placements in the industry. Around 80% of the graduates attending this programme go on to work in the industry. Over the years graduates have gone on to some of the top jobs in the industry.
For more information on careers and training in the racing industry go to www.careersinracing.com or sign up to their service below for regular updates:
The British Horseracing Authority’s Careers in Racing team implements recruitment, training, education, and community initiatives for the horseracing industry. By signing up for their service you will receive regular communications about career opportunities within horseracing..
