Horse racing isn’t just about jockeys and trainers – there are loads of jobs available in the surprisingly diverse equine industry, at entry and graduate level, for horse lovers, riders and non-riders alike.

The racing and equine industry offers a wide range of jobs and it often surprises people to see how large and diverse it is. Excellent training and support are available to all and represent a fantastic opportunity for any young person.

The equine industry

The racing and equine industry supports significant levels of employment in many different sectors, with the core of the industry sustaining over 24,000 full and part time jobs. Over 9,500 full time and around 7,400 part time employees are involved in the production and training of horses. Over 400 full time jockeys and over 550 licensed trainers of racehorses work in the industry. Racecourses employ over 1,800 full time staff with additional staff employed on a race day. The common bond joining many people who work in the industry is a real passion for horses and horse racing. Check out the British Horseracing Authority’s website for info at: www.careersinracing.com.

Diverse roles

‘Not your typical job’ is perhaps a good way to describe most roles in horse racing and the equine world, whether you are working directly with horses or in an office. Key practical roles caring for horses might be based at race horse training yards or breeding studs. Experience, whilst desirable is not necessary for entry onto training schemes at the British Racing School, Northern Racing College or the National Stud. The two dedicated racing schools offer fantastic free apprenticeships for 16-19 year olds and no prior experience of horse riding is necessary.

The National Stud

The National Stud also has specialist training for those interested in working in horse breeding and looking after foals before they start their racing career. This is great for people with an interested in working in the equine sector who want to work with horses but don’t want to ride them.

Racecourses

Non-office-based roles are also available at racecourses and include working as ground staff, who are responsible for turf and site maintenance as well as hospitality and catering. There is lots of scope for ongoing training and career progression in all these equine related roles.

Graduate opportunities

For graduates and those interested in working in administration, there are opportunities ranging from racing secretary to racecourse management. Professionals like accountants, marketing executives and event managers are required within the equine and racing industries too and it’s a fantastic way to combine a degree with working in an equine and sport-focused environment.

Equine apprenticeships

There are many apprenticeship opportunities within the equine industry, and many offer BHS Stage exams and/or WBDs as part of the framework. They are available to learners aged 16 or over and usually offered at three different levels which take between one to three years to complete, depending on the industry and the level offered. For related articles, go to our page on careers and jobs in agriculture.