RACE - Racing Academy - Courses & Training - horse racing Industry - Stable Staff | Racing Academy

Upcoming for 2026!

Please note that the Trainee Jockey Course is no longer delivered.

Horsemanship for the Thoroughbred Industry QQI Major Award at Level 5

The overall aim of the programme is to provide the learner with the opportunity to acquire the knowledge, skill and competence needed to work in a range of roles in the equine sector and /or to progress to further or higher education and training.

Schooling Progression Course (A3 Licence & Conditionals)

A 1-day course delivered by leading Amateur Rider, Derek O’Connor in conjunction with RACE and funded by Equuip. Riders are coached on schooling over jumps and race-riding skills. Click on this page for dates for this course and how to apply for a place.

Pre-Licence Schooling Course

A 1-day course for those applying for a schooling licence / upgrading a licence / awaiting re-assessment. Fully funded by Equuip

Equine Transport Course (Certificate of Competence)

A ½ day course for anyone transporting horses in connection with economic activity as required by law. Training and a 30-question exam provided. Certification is granted through the Dept. Of Agriculture.

Junior Academy Days

1-day courses run for ages 10 to 17 years who wish to develop their race-riding skills. You do not need to own your own pony or have previous experience of pony racing.

RACE Mobile Training Unit

Available for hire for training and education within the Thoroughbred Industry.

Thoroughbred Industry Administration Course

A hybrid course delivered over 6 weeks

Start Your Own Business

What's Involved? This short course equips learners with the foundational knowledge and practical skills needed to plan, launch, and manage a small business. Using examples and case studies from the racing and equine industries, participants gain confidence in navigating the key steps of entrepreneurship—from idea generation to basic financial planning and compliance. Ideal for aspiring entrepreneurs, freelancers, sole traders, and self‑employed individuals in the racing sector. What's Covered? Describe the core steps involved in starting a business, including idea validation and market research. Develop a simple business model and value proposition. Understand legal structures, registration steps, and basic compliance obligations (Ireland‑based but adaptable). Create basic financial plans, including start‑up costs, pricing, and cash‑flow forecasting. Identify marketing channels, especially low‑cost digital tools relevant to small businesses. Build a simple action plan to move from idea to implementation. Recognise key business supports, grants, and enterprise resources available in the racing industry and wider sector. Eligibility Criteria: Be 18+ years old Have intermediate English (B1 or higher) Have basic digital skills for online learning Have an interest in exploring self-employment Have access to a device (Tablet, PC, Laptop) and internet for online modules No formal qualifications required When Is The Course Delivered? This course is delivered hybrid over a 5 week period. Thursday, 5th November, 14:00 - 16:00 - Face-to-face delivery in RACE Thursday, 12th November, 18:00 - 20:00 - Online delivery Thursday, 19th November, 15:00 - 17:00 - Face-to-face delivery in RACE Thursday, 26th November, 19:00 - 20:00 - Online delivery Wednesday, 2nd December, 19:00 - 20:00 - Online delivery Thursday, 3rd December, 10:00 - 16:00 - Face-to-face delivery in RACE All dates must be attended. How To Apply: Application are open! Apply here! Applications close: COB Monday, 19th October 2026 What is the Cost of The Course? The course is fully funded by Kildare County Council / Local Enterprise Office Kildare. However, a booking fee of €25.00 will be payable to RACE once you are offered a place on the course, to secure that place on the course. Places are limited and offered on a first applied basis in line with eligibility criteria outlined.

Rider Improvement Course

Course outline The aim of the course is to support those who would like to gain experience or seek employment as a work rider in a racing yard. Develop Core Race Riding Competencies Enhance Horse Handling and Behaviour Awareness Promote Safety, Communication, and Professional Practice Prepare Participants for Employment as Work Riders Course duration This course is delivered 2 afternoons per week over a 4-week period. Who can apply Age 16+ Competent equestrian riders from non-racing disciplines, including: Pony club riders Hunting / trekking riders Showjumpers Eventers Riders with good to very good flatwork skills who have little or no experience riding racehorses New entrants to the racing industry, including: Stable staff with limited ridden experience of racehorses Yard assistants wishing to progress into riding roles Equine students or graduates (e.g. equine science, horsemanship programmes) seeking a pathway into racing Individuals returning to riding who wish to enter the racing workforce Course dates Assessment Dates: Tuesday, 6th October (Afternoon) Wednesday, 7th October (Afternoon) Course Dates: Week 1 - 13th & 15th October Week 2 - 20th & 22nd October Week 3 - 3rd & 5th November Week 4 - 10th & 12th November *All dates must be attended Course fee The fee for the course is set at €200.00 per person. Applications Closed