Applications for British Horseracing’s Graduate Development Programme close a week today (Friday 14 February).
The Graduate Programme, run by the British Horseracing Authority (BHA) has provided valuable training and development to young graduates interested in the Racing Industry for over 20 years. Around 350 graduates have completed the 10-week Programme, with many going on to successful and high profile careers within British Racing.
Following the programme, graduates are in a strong position to begin a career within the Racing industry and previous graduates have gone on to fill senior positions within a broad range of Racing organisations. Several graduates from the 2013 scheme secured longer term positions with their graduate sponsors including: James Yellen at Great British Racing; Amy Derham at Great British Racing International; Joe Rendall at Timeform and Harry Williams at the Racehorse Owners Association (ROA).
Will Lambe, an ex-graduate and currently Director of Public Affairs and Policy for BHA said:
“The British Horseracing Graduate Development Programme provides an excellent opportunity for graduates looking to pursue a career in racing. It offers graduates a unique insight into the numerous and fascinating elements of the sport, and is a respected and important source of new talent for the industry. A passion for the sport is the only requirement, with applicants accepted from a variety of backgrounds.”
With an average of over 300 applications each year for roughly 18 placements there is a rigorous assessment process to select the candidates. The Programme begins with a two-week residential course in Newmarket during July, where graduates attend seminars held by key figures in Racing and take part in field trips. Graduates learn how various aspects of the sport work together, which gives an insight in to how the different organisations function within the industry. As well as aiding the graduates’ professional development it also provides the opportunity to build valuable professional relationships with people from across the sport.
At the end of the two-weeks in Newmarket graduates begin an eight-week paid placement with one of the sponsors within the industry. In 2014, placement opportunities include roles at BHA, Horseracing Betting Levy Board, York Racecourse, Northern Racing College, Racing Enterprises Ltd, Racecourse Association, Racing Post, Royal Windsor Racecourse, Coral, Weatherbys, as well as several Jockey Club Racecourses.
BHA are always keen to speak with new employers who may be interested in being involved in future programmes.
