The British Racing School are the main provider of Jockey Training in the industry. We have state of the art facilties including computer analysis software and the brand new Racemaster Simulator.

Click on the jockey course you require from the sub menu on the right hand side of this page.

FAQs

How do I become a jockey?
The first step is to start the Level 2 Diploma in Racehorse Care. This is a mandatory requirement. To find out more information on this Foundation Course click here

I have already achieved my Level 2, what now?
The first step is to attend a Licence Course. This is a week-long where you are assessed to see if you're suitable to be granted your Apprentice/Conditional Jockeys Licence.
If you are working full time for a Licensed Racehorse Trainer you need to apply jointly with your trainer for either your Apprentice Licence or Conditional Licence. The application for this is to be made directly to the Licensing Department at The British Horseracing Authority (BHA) by your racehorse trainer. If you are under 18 years of age you will need your parents' consent.

How long does it take to become a jockey?
It depends on your current level of experience. If you have already started your Level 2 Diploma and are working full time for a trainer it will take less time. If your trainer believes you are ready to apply, it will only take as long as processing the application and completing the soonest available Licence course.
If you have not completed your Level 2 Diploma it will take longer. The Diploma is 9 weeks long and then you will need to gain a reasonable amount of experience in a racing yard before you would be ready to apply for your licence. The exact timescale is dependent on the individual and you need support of your racehorse trainer.

How easy is it to become a jockey?
Quite simply, it's not. Becoming a professional Jockey is as difficult as it would be to become any professional sportsperson. Not only do you have to have talent on a racehorse, you need an immensely dedicated work ethic. You will work long hours for little reward when you are starting out. When others around you are relaxing you will be in the gym or driving from one meeting to another. You will get home late and be up early. On top of that you have your weight to consider; jockeys have a constant battle to maintain a low riding weight and not a day goes by when you are not conscientious of your diet. There is also a lot of competition to succeed, there are currently over 850 licenced jockeys.
However, should you succeed then the rewards will be second to none; very little will beat the feeling of riding a winner.

How much does it cost?
The 5 day Licence course for your Apprentice/Conditional Licence is completely free.

What is the difference between an Apprentice and a Conditional Licence?
An Apprentice jockey will ride in flat races only. Conditional jockeys will ride in Jump races only.

Can I ride on the Flat and in Jump Races?
Yes, it is possible to have a combined licence.

What weight do I need to be?
The BHA lay down that to attend the Apprentice Licence course you will need to be 8st 3lbs or under with your riding kit on.
The BHA lay down that toattend the Conditional Licence course you will need to be 10st 4lbs or under with your riding kit on.

What is an Apprentice/Conditional jockey?
When you become a jockey you are given an allowance in the weight your horse has to carry to compensate for your inexperience in race riding. As an Apprentice (flat)/ Conditional (jump) you will begin by taking 7lbs off the weight carried by the horse. As you become more experienced, and ride more winners, this allowance will be reduced. For more information on how this works click here.

I don't work fulltime for a racehorse Trainer; can I still apply for my Apprentice/Conditional Licence?
No. You need to be in fulltime paid employment with a Racehorse Trainer to apply for a professional jockeys licence.
If you work part time for a licenced Racehorse Trainer you may apply for your Amateur Rider Permit.

What age do I need to be to get my Apprentice/Conditional Licence?
The minimum age is 16, because you need to have started your Level 2 Diploma in Racehorse Care and you cannot do this until you are of official school leaving age. If you want to get your licence as soon as you leave school you may want to consider the Flexible Learning Programme for under 16's.

I don't want to be a professional jockey, are there other options?
Yes. You can apply for your Amateur Rider Permit. There are 2 types of Amateur Licence but you need to start with the Category A Amateur Rider Permit. This allows you to ride in Amateur races against other amateurs either on the Flat or over Jumps. You can also have a combined licence.