For those people seeking their first taste of racing, our foundation course will ensure they have the necessary skills to gain employment in the racing industry, and for existing racing staff emphasis is placed on ensuring they receive the advice and develop the practical knowledge and experience to gain promotion within their chosen field.
The Course
- 18 week, residential foundation course
- 12 weeks at the NHC and 6 weeks work experience placement.
- Courses start every 4 weeks
- Riding and non-riding option
- Designed to ensure learners are competent both on the ground working with horses and also whilst riding a thoroughbred horse at exercise.
- Learners will receive lectures and demonstrations and will work to a routine similar to a racing stable whilst at the NHC.
- The aim of this course is to prepare learners for work in a racing stable.
Who the course is for;
- Anyone age 16+.
- No previous equine experience or academic qualifications are required to enrol.
- Applicants must not weigh more than 11 stone ready to ride (i.e. wearing skullcap, body protector and boots).
Cost
- Tuition for UK residents is free, including Irish residents.
- A contribution of £500 towards the £1200 cost of the accommodation and meals is payable.
- A £100 first instalment is required.
Qualifications you will gain;
- Level 1 Diploma in Work-Based Racehorse Care
- Functional Skills Maths & English
- Emergency First Aid Certificate
- L3 Award in the principles of transporting horses by road on short journeys
- L1 Award introduction to horseracing industry
- Life skills; including cooking, nutrition, fitness, looking after your money and talks from speakers from NARS and Racing Welfare.
In addition, learners also improve their self-esteem, independence, self-confidence and resilience.
What happens after the course
Upon successful completion of the course suitable learners, with the right aptitude, will be secured permanent, full-time employment in a UK racing yard, where they will become a member of the stable staff team.
