The course

The Foundation Course is the perfect entry point for individuals wishing to pursue a hands-on career in the British horseracing industry. Whether they have a wealth of experience riding and caring for horses or are complete beginners, the Foundation Course puts them firmly on track for a successful and lifelong career in the horseracing industry.

Key features:

  • Residential training programme
  • Riding and non-riding pathways are available
  • 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 Foundation Course aims to prepare learners for work in a racing stable
  • Upon successful completion of the work placement, it is anticipated the racehorse trainer will offer the learner a permanent, full-time, paid position as a racing groom. At this point, the opportunity to commence a Level 2 Apprenticeship Equine Groom (Racing) will present.

Qualifications

  • Level 1 Diploma in Work-Based Horse Care
  • Emergency First Aid Certificate
  • Level 3 Award in the Principles of Transporting Horses by Road 
  • Entry Level Award in Basic Knowledge of the Horseracing Industry
  • Functional Skills in maths and English if you do not already have GCSEs at level 4 or above

Duration

12 weeks (16 weeks for under 19s who have not achieved GCSE maths and English at grades 9-4) at the National Horseracing College, followed by a six-week work placement

Minimum age

16

Entry requirements

  • No academic qualifications required, however, if applicants do not hold a GCSE grade 4 or above in maths and English, they will be required to take these subjects as functional skills
  • No equine experience required
  • No height restrictions
  • Under 11 stone (70kg), ready to ride (i.e. wearing a skullcap, body protector and boots) if the applicant is an inexperienced rider
  • Under 12 stone (77kg), ready to ride (i.e. wearing a skullcap, body protector and boots) if the applicant is an experienced rider.
  • Applicants who consider themselves to be an experienced rider will be required to provide video evidence of their riding and to undergo a riding assessment
  • There are no weight restrictions for applicants who opt to follow the non-rider pathway

Fees and financial support

  • If you are a UK or Irish resident your tuition is free. A small contribution towards the cost of accommodation and meals for the duration of the course is required. Please visit the website for the current fee. 
  • We offer means-tested bursaries to help cover some of the costs if you’re from a low-income household. 

How to apply

For more information, and how to apply, please see the website.