QUALITY ASSURANCE | Racing Academy

Here you will find an overview of our Quality Assurance (QA) policies, which undergo regular monitoring and review. We will also publish any relevant QA reports here. If you would like to discuss any of these documents, please contact us on 045 522 468. We currently deliver the Trainee Jockey programme under contracted training via Cenit College for KWETB and therefore KWETB are responsible for the quality assurance of that programme.

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.
Stable Staff

A majority of people working in all aspects of the racing and breeding industry begin their career as stable staff in a local yard. Stable Staff are the back-bone of this industry and it is the starting point for anyone wishing to become a jockey. Excellent opportunities exist for experienced stable staff at home and abroad and Irish stable staff are highly valued workers in every racing jurisdiction throughout the world.
Professional Jockey

A jockey is a professional rider who rides in flat or jump races (some do both) for a riding fee. To become a professional jockey you must first become a highly experienced exercise rider before applying for an apprentice (flat) or conditional (jump) licence with the support of your employer/trainer. A conditional/apprentice jockey receives a weight allowance to compensate for inexperience until a set number of winners are ridden.
Racehorse Trainer

A racehorse trainer owns and runs a business that trains thoroughbred horses to race in flat or jump races. To become a racehorse trainer requires extensive experience in a senior/supervisory role in a racing yard. You apply through the Turf Club for a licence having completed a mandatory course here at RACE before submitting a business plan in advance of an interview by the Stewards of the Turf Club.
Head Groom

A Head Groom is the most senior groom in a racing yard and is responsible for supervising horses and staff on the trainer’s behalf. To become a Head Groom requires a lot of knowledge and experience acquired over many years working as a groom in a racing yard. You must be confident in your experience and capable of leading a team by example.
Travelling Head Groom

A Travelling Head Groom is responsible for all duties required to take a racehorse to a race meeting. Travelling Head Grooms will usually drive a horse lorry/van or 4x4 towing a trailer for which they will have training and certification. To become a Travelling Head Groom requires excellent organisational skills, confidence dealing with all types of horses and an ability to work under pressure.
Qualified Rider

A Qualified Rider is an amateur rider, meaning that they do not receive a fee for riding in a race. Most Qualified riders work as full-time stable staff. A Qualified rider is restricted to 21 rides against professional jockeys in Ireland each season (a calendar yr). Point-to-Point races are restricted to Qualified riders and there are many races on the flat and over jumps open to Qualified riders.
Assistant Trainer

An Assistant Trainer is 2nd in command to the Trainer and takes charge when the Trainer is away from the yard or may represent the Trainer at a race meeting. To become an Assistant Trainer requires a lot of experience and knowledge about every aspect of a racing yard as well as being capable of leading a team.
Racing Secretary

A Racing Secretary is a similar role as any secretary in any business, however they must also be capable of making entries, declarations and booking jockeys. Prior experience and understanding of horse racing is essential and many Racing Secretaries begin their careers as stable staff in either a full-time or part-time role. A Racing Secretary will often fill the role of PA to the Trainer.
Stalls Handler

In Ireland the work of most stalls handlers is part-time or seasonal. They work as a team to load flat horses into starting stalls under the instructions of the starter. Stall Handlers are usually experienced stable staff or former jockeys. To become a stalls handler requires a high degree of experience and skill in handling racehorses of all ages.
Pre-Trainer

Many trainers and racehorse owners employ a Pre-trainer to start young horses in training for the first time. A Pre-Trainer must be a very experienced horse person, capable of reading the reactions of a young horse to tack and rider on its back for the very first time. To become a Pre-trainer requires a vast experience and confidence in riding all character of racehorses. It does not require a licence.
Stud Groom

A Stud Groom is the traditional title of the Head Groom on a stud farm. The Stud Groom is usually responsible for closely monitoring all pregnant mares and mares with foals. Duties include supervising and delegating jobs to other grooms. To become a Stud Groom requires a lot of experience and knowledge gained over many years on all aspects of breeding horses.
Farrier

A farrier is a highly trained role responsible for the care and management of a horse’s foot including shoeing (nailing on steel shoes), trimming (controlling growth and shape) and remedial care where a horse has issue such as a bruised foot. To become a farrier you must first serve a 4-year apprenticeship under a Master Farrier and complete training courses at the Irish Farriery Authority, which is based here on campus.
Stallion Groom

Working with Stallions is a highly-skilled job and requires the highest level of horsemanship and experience. Stallions are highly intelligent and sensitive horses and managing their daily routine and exercise to the job of a Stallion Groom.
NON RIDING STABLE STAFF

Non-riding grooms are a vital part of most racing yards. A non-riding groom carries out all stable duties with the exception of exercising racehorses.
Work in Racing

For more details on training, education, careers and work opportunities in the Irish racing and breeding industry click here.
Get a Career Leg-Up on our Exercise Rider Course
A 3rd Irish Derby for RACE Trainee Jockey Course Graduate, Seamie Heffernan

22 RACE Graduates won 41 races around the world last week with Seamie Heffernan (white cap) stealing the limelight with a memorable victory on Capri for Aidan O'Brien and the Coolmore Partners in the Group 1 Irish Derby at the Curragh on Saturday. Kildare-man Seamie was recording a 3rd win in Ireland's most prestigious flat race and his win was not unexpected with pre-race talk on course that Capri had really sparkled in his last piece of work before Saturday's bigrace. Seamie has been a key part of Aidan O'Brien's team for the 20 years and is a credit to himself that at 44 years of age he is riding at the height of his powers. Seamie completed the Trainee Jockey Course in 1988 and along with Joe Fanning (1986) and John Egan (1984), both of whom also rode winners last week, he has certainly enjoyed a long and fruitful career. In his post-race interview Seamie said he's already looking forward to trying to add a 4th Irish Derby triumph to his CV next year!
Keep Up to Date With RACE On Social Media

For all the latest information on RACE training, activities and upcoming courses follow us on social media. Click on any of the social media links below to find daily posts, pictures, videos and information.
2022 TRAINEE JOCKEY COURSE OPEN DAYS

The 1st step to apply for the 2020/2021 Trainee Jockey Course is to book a place on an Open Day by completing an Open Day Booking & Expression of Interest Form. The dates for 2022 Open Days for the Trainee Jockey Course are: Feb 23rd March 9th, 23rd April 6th, 20th May 24th All Open Days fall on a Wednesday and start at 2pm. Details of the course and how to apply will be explained at Open Days with members of staff answering all questions. Download 'Expression of Interest' form below: Expression-of-interestDownload
RACE Mobile Training Unit

https://youtu.be/MqY5qapmLTs We are excited to launch our new Mobile Training Unit. We offer flexible training options for Racing Staff and Licensed Riders across Ireland. High-spec simulator and video facility for jockey coaching Whip tuition and coaching assessments provided Delivered in the workplace with no disruption to daily routine Range of training options available Click for Yard Based Training Options Click to register for Mobile Unit Training (Note: by filling in this form you are not automatically booked for training. A staff member will be in contact to confirm details of your booking once registration is received). Training is subsidised by Horse Racing Ireland (EQUUIP). A booking fee of €150.00 will be required once booking confirmed. For queries contact Lisa / Amanda on 045522468 or email training@racingacademy.ie Sponsored by:
Basic Computer Literacy Course

New for 2022, this is a 4 week computer course covering the very basics in computer software. It is aimed at anyone within the Horse Racing Industry, with a view to help expand their computer literacy, and assist with day to day computer processing tasks required for business or personal needs. The course will cover an introduction to the following: Microsoft Word Microsoft Excel PowerPoint Email Internet browsing and links Using the HRI Racing Administration System (RAS) Accessing / completion of forms with use of Mobile Applications The course will be delivered in person on RACE Campus. Candidates will be enrolled onto the Learning Management System (LMS) that will host additional course content, and enhance the learner experience. Date: 22nd March 2022 - 12th April 2022 Time: 6pm to 8pm every Tuesday Location: I.T. Room, RACE Campus Duration: 4 weeks Cost: This course is fully funded by EQUUIP To apply: Please click link to Application Form Enquiries to: training@racingacademy.ie or phone Lisa O'Brien on 045 522468. Once applications are received we will contact you by email to confirm if we are offering you a place on the course. Please ensure that you check your email regularly.
Private Jockey & Rider Coaching

Private Jockey & Rider Coaching is available on RACE campus. Choose from a panel of qualified coaches, all highly skilled in their field of expertise. Coaching is available for: Licensed Riders Pre-Licensed riders Work Riders Charity Race Riders Graduates of the Academy The coaching package includes: 4 private sessions With training analysis software Availability weekday evenings, plus some availability at lunchtime Cost: Package of 4 is €90. Discounted rate for Graduates of the Academy €75 To avail of this service you must complete the application form via the link below, once submitted, contact us by phone 045 522468 or by email office@racingacademy.ie Click for online application Meet the coaches Leighton Aspell Former leading National Hunt professional jockey with nearly 1,000 winners over 27-year career Twice winner of Aintree Grand National (2014, 2015) and Welsh Grand National Big race wins in Hennessy Gold Cup and many graded races International riding experience in France, Italy, Czech Republic & USA Jockey Coaching Qualification (2019) Part of RACE Instructor Team (2021) Paddy Flood Multiple Grade 1 winning jump jockey, retired from race riding (2016) Winner of Irish Grand National, Kerry National & Midlands National (2008) Big race wins at Aintree, Cheltenham & Punchestown Festivals Rode successfully in Australia for 3 years Part of RACE Instructor Team (2017). Delivering schooling courses and coaching for Jump Jockeys & Amateur Riders RACE Senior Jockey Coach at Bahrain Horseracing Academy (since 2011) Cathy Gannon Retired professional jockey with more that 400 career wins First female Champion Apprentice in Ireland & UK (2004) Irish female Sportsperson of the Year (2004) Winner of 3 Lester Awards, and leading female professional in the UK for several years Has ridden winners in France, Dubai, Australia, Korea and represented Ireland in Shergar Cup Jockey Coaching Qualification (2017) Gordon Power Former leading apprentice and senior work rider with Jim Bolger for 20 years International experience in Dubai & Korea Highly valued rider at Breeze Up Sales for leading Irish consigners Jockey Coaching Qualification (2016)
Thoroughbred Industry Administration Course

What's involved? The overall aim of this programme is to provide the learner with skills and knowledge required for a position working in the administrative sector of the thoroughbred industry. The programme is designed to provide 'how-to' information on a variety of relevant tasks. Delivered via blended learning, over 6 weeks (mostly evening time for ease of access, with 2 afternoon sessions and 1 full day on campus), with the final week completed over 1.5 days. There are assessments associated with the core modules, including assignments and exams. The course content is supported via Moodle (an online access platform to support course content). You must attend all sessions and complete all assessments to successfully compete the course and receive certification. As the majority of the course will be delivered online, you must have access to a device with a camera & mic to attend the online sessions via Zoom and access the online course page via Moodle. You must have access to Microsoft Word & Excel to complete assessments. What's covered? Industry visit Microsoft Word & Excel Payroll Racing Administration Health & Safety HR for small / medium business Marketing for small / medium business Stud Administration Panel session with industry representatives When is the course delivered? The course will be delivered on the following dates (Note that below is a guide and subject to change): Thursday, 22nd February 2024 (2 pm- 5 pm on RACE Campus) Thursday, 29th February 2024 (6 pm - 7.30 pm online) Thursday, 7th March 2024 (3 pm- 5 pm on RACE Campus) Thursday, 14th March 2024 (6 pm - 7.30 pm online) Thursday, 21st March 2024 (6 pm - 8 pm online) Tuesday, 26th March 2024 (6 pm - 8 pm online) Thursday, 28th March 2024 (9 am - 5 pm on RACE Campus) How do I apply? You should complete the Application Form by 12th of February 2024. What is the cost of this course? This course is subsidised by EQUUIP . The fee for the course is set at €250.00 payable to RACE at booking (once offered a place on the course). Places are limited and will be offered according to applications received. For queries, please contact Lisa on 045 522468 or email training@racingacademy.ie

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