The British Racing School (BRS) has launched an innovative gap year programme which will give participants the opportunity to spend time training at the BRS in Newmarket and work at racing yards in both the UK and Australia. 

The one-year programme, which starts in June 2025, is designed for students who are completing their A-levels this year and who are keen to pursue a career in the horse racing industry.

The programme will include seven weeks of coaching at the British Racing School (30 June – 15 August) to train the students in working with and riding thoroughbreds, paid industry placements at a British racing yard for the jumps season (providing the student successfully passes the coaching course) and the opportunity to gain further experience working at an Australian racing yard for five months. Training at the British Racing School costs £250 while travel to Australia is at the student’s own cost.

“We are excited to offer such a thrilling horse racing gap year to young people taking their A-Levels this year,” said Andrew Braithwaite, chief executive of the British Racing School.

‘The perfect foundation’

“The programme combines the chance to train at our world-class facilities in Newmarket and gain real life work experience, as well as the opportunity to travel internationally and work in Australia. 

“It will provide students with the perfect foundation to develop their skills, gain international experience in the sport and open doors to a wide range of opportunities within the equine industry.”

The British Racing School’s gap year programme is one of a number of courses the school provides to encourage and support young people into the horse racing industry. Last month the BRS launched a Level 2 Qualification in Racehorse Care and Exercise for 16-18-year-olds while last week it revealed it is combining with Hartpury University to run a three year industry degree.

Image © British Racing School.

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