Training & Education
The British horseracing industry has built up an extensive portfolio of training options to support new entrants, further develop the skills of those already working in racing and assist those planning to make career changes. Racing’s employers rely on the recruitment and retention of a skilled workforce, and training and education are central to this, as are the safety, wellbeing and development of its people.
For the Thoroughbred breeding industry, the National Stud runs an annual programme of training courses to prepare people for careers in this sector and support those already working on stud farms. This programme is complemented by the Thoroughbred Breeders’ Association (TBA) Education programme.
HBLB supports Training & Education activities in both the Racing and Breeding industries through annual grants to the following providers:
British Racing School
The British Racing School (BRS) is a state-of-the-art training centre on the outskirts of Newmarket, offering world class facilities and a hands-on learning experience to help kickstart successful careers in racing. HBLB supports two key activities based at the BRS; Core Training and the Jockey Coaching Programme. In the grant year 2024-25, HBLB awarded a grant of £1,203,680 towards these programmes.
Core Training
HBLB supports foundation course training for future stable staff and the delivery of apprenticeships in the workplace. HBLB also contributes towards the funding of training days aimed at the wider racing industry, including modules for trainers, racing secretary courses, assistant trainer and yard manager courses.
For more information please click here.
Jockey Coaching Programme (JCP)
The JCP provides career long guidance and support to Jockeys to ensure they can achieve their maximum potential and secure a sustainable living.
Key workstreams include; the provision of training and development to all apprentice and conditional jockeys from the date of first licence to one year post claiming status, specialist sessions and the Racing Excellence Series.
For more information please click here.
National Horseracing College
The National Horseracing College (NHC) provides an educational centre of training excellence in the north with the aim to encourage and nurture future talents. The wide ranges of courses cater for the staffing needs of the racing industry in Britain. HBLB supports two key activities which are based at the NHC; Core Training and the Racing Staff Development Programme (RSDP). HBLB awarded £1,361,820 in 2024-25 to support these activities.
Core Training
HBLB contributes towards the funding of stable staff training and recruitment training programmes which promote sustained and valued employment.
For more information please click here.
Racing Staff Development Programme (RSDP)
The RSDP offers work based training to develop skills for those working in the horseracing industry. Examples of training include; leadership courses, first aid courses and work rider workshops. The aim is to improve and develop an individual’s skills to support career development and progression, promote job satisfaction and improve retention in the industry.
For more information please click here.
Scottish Racing Academy
HBLB supports the Scottish Racing Academy (SRA), an organisation committed to addressing the gap within the education and training sector of racing available in Scotland and the north of England. Partnering with leading education centres, the SRA helps people to learn the necessary skills and knowledge to pursue a career in horseracing.
The SRA run a wide range of courses, catering for all abilities, from individuals already working within the sector wishing to upskill, to new entrants and school leavers. They provide students with knowledge, skills and expertise in racehorse care and exercise, promoting career development in the horseracing industry. A grant of £206,823 was awarded in 2024-25 to the SRA.
For more information please click here.
Pony Racing Authority
HBLB funding supports the Pony Racing Authority's (PRA), Pathway into Racing through Pony Racing Initiative which includes Taster Days, Training Days and the Academy Programme.
Taster Days are unmounted and act as an introduction to Pony Racing, aiming to show children and their families what is needed to take part in a pony race. Training Days are an opportunity to bring along a pony and learn the key skills around race riding including balance and fitness, race positioning and how to line up at the start. The Academy Programme course targets individuals who do not have access to ponies and provides them with an opportunity to participate, aiming to reach beyond racing's normal community to attract potential jockeys from less obvious audiences. The Pathway into Racing through Pony Racing Initiative received £61,000 from HBLB in 2024-25.
For more information please click here.
Racing to School
HBLB supports the Racing to School Education Programme, a free education programme delivering a range of activities at racing venues to young people from all backgrounds, which brings National Curriculum subjects to life.
Racing offers many opportunities for exploring school subjects in a practical way. Weights and measurements, the geometry of racecourses and the science of jockey nutrition are examples of how Racing to School days enrich education through real life application.
The behind-the-scenes nature of a Racing to School Day makes the learning experience a special and engaging one, sparking an interest in the sport of horseracing. In 2024-25 the Racing to School Education Programme was awarded a grant of £300,000.
For more information please click here.
National Stud
HBLB supports the National Stud’s internationally renowned training courses and facilities for young people embarking on a career in the breeding industry in racing.
The National Stud's two main courses offer individuals the opportunity to develop industry relevant skills in the environment of a commercial stud. The courses focus on employability and equine welfare, breeding practice, purchasing and consigning bloodstock. The lectures are delivered by veterinary and industry renowned professionals, providing a hands-on practical experience and theoretical knowledge of the aspects of running a commercial stud.
These opportunities are also provided to current and future stud staff, helping to increase staff motivation and encourage retention within the industry. Stud training at the National Stud was awarded £190,000 in 2024-25.
For more information please click here.
Thoroughbred Breeders Association
HBLB supports the Thoroughbred Breeders Association’s (TBA) education programme which aims to create initiatives to promote, aid, and support good employment practices within the breeding industry, to enable the recruitment of skilled employees and retain existing staff.
Key workstreams include; providing enhanced guidance to employers, facilitating work-based training opportunities and producing engaging learning materials.
In 2024-25 the TBA Education programme was awarded £88,000.
For more information please click here.
Careers Marketing
HBLB supports a national careers marketing campaign run by the BHA Careers Marketing Team which aims to ensure a pipeline of applicants into training or employment across the entire racing industry.
The campaign raises awareness of all the opportunities available working within the racing industry through digital advertising, education partnerships, exhibitions, early careers programmes, and experiential events.
HBLB awarded £155,000 towards the national careers marketing campaign in 2024-25.
For more information please click here.