Qualification
On successful completion of the programme the learner is awarded a FETAC Level 4 Certificate in Race Horse Care & Riding
The Course
The Trainee Jockey Traineeship aims to provide young people who have an interest in working in the thoroughbred racing industry, with a wide range of skills and related knowledge in riding and caring for racehorses.
The duration of this traineeship is 42 weeks. The Traineeship consists of 14 weeks basic riding and stable management training at the Racing Academy and Centre of Education (RACE), 18 weeks integrated training (mornings on-the-job and afternoons off-the -job training) and 10 weeks full time on-the-job training under the supervision of a local racehorse trainer.
The Job
A Trainee Jockey is capable of performing the range of skills and tasks required in the area of racehorse care and riding within the horse racing industry. They also have a broad knowledge of racecourse procedures, rules and guidelines. The tasks of a Trainee Jockey include riding, grooming, lunging, feeding and watering and carrying out the stable routine.
The Person
To apply for this traineeship you must be aged between 16 and 18 years (before 1st July in the year you are applying) and be under nine stone (57kgs).
There is no minimum standard of education for this Traineeship but you should have basic literacy & numeracy skills. Junior Certificate standard or a FETAC Foundation Level certificate is desirable.
Previous riding experience is not essential but you should be able to demonstrate riding ability, good balance and co-ordination and a love of horses and outdoor work. A medical certificate to ensure your fitness for the occupation is also required.
Progression
On successful completion of this Traineeship you may be employed as an Apprentice Jockey or as a member of the stable staff progressing to roles such as Work Rider, Travelling Head Person or Assistant Trainer. On achievement of the FETAC Level 4 Certificate in Race Horse Care and Riding you may progress to further education and training leading to a FETAC Level 5 Certificate in Horsemanship.
So What Next?
You should contact your local FÁS Office for information on how to register for this Traineeship and for the location and date of the next available course.
All applications are advertised and sought through FÁS or referred to FÁS by RACE, with a closing date in June each year. Week long residential assessments are conducted in July, from which suitable candidates are selected.
