The British Horseracing Graduate Development Programme has been running for nearly 20 years, providing an invaluable source of talent to the sport and its supporting industry. Around 300 graduates have completed the programme and many are now key figures in racing. Graduates from previous years work in management positions in racecourses, bookmakers, the trade press, trainer’s yards, studs, bloodstock sales, The British Horseracing Authority, and more. An interest in horses or racing is not essential but if a career in an exciting, high-profile and challenging industry sounds appealing, then the Graduate Programme may be of interest to you.

The programme starts with a comprehensive two-week residential course at the British Racing School, which includes a wide range of speakers, field trips, personal development and networking opportunities. The course shows how the various aspects of the sport work together and gives an insight into many of the organisations and functions within the industry. Graduates then go on to their paid placements which are usually eight weeks but in some cases may be longer.

For most of the placements, your degree subject isn’t as important as your desire for a challenging career in horseracing. Most of those who join us have just finished their degree, but recent graduates will also be considered. On completing the programme, graduates will have a raft of opportunities in the fascinating, complex and rewarding world of horseracing.

Find out more about the placements and how to apply for next year's programme

Previous Graduates

“I completed the Graduate Programme in June 2005. It was a very appealing programme that I hoped would jump start my career in racing. The course was an opportunity to gain a full insight into all sectors of racing. I spent the 8 week placement at the Racecourse Association. This was an ideal placement and a fantastic insight into all of areas of Racecourse Management. Following the programme I was offered a job at Huntingdon Racecourse and was promoted to Commercial Manager shortly afterwards. Now, at 26, I am the youngest Racecourse Managing Director in the country. The Graduate Programme gave me an opportunity in an industry that I have always wanted to be in involved in and 3 years later I have achieved my goal and hopefully one day I may have the opportunity at a larger course.” Sophie Hodgkinson, Huntingdon Racecourse 

“I strongly recommend doing a job you enjoy in an industry that is unpredictable on a daily basis.  The Graduate Programme is something that you will never forget. After the two weeks at Newmarket in 2007, my 8 week placement with William Hill taught me everything I needed to know about a major UK bookmaker. Upon leaving William Hill I was hired by SIS as a Data Operator. My role requires me to manage iSIS, a highly effective display system for bookmakers throughout the UK and Ireland.  I am responsible for making sure betting markets, live shows and information from racecourses reach our customers in the most practical and efficient manner.  My job allows me to do what I enjoy, watch racing and attend a race meeting at least once a week.  I regularly see people connected with the scheme including speakers, bookmakers, presenters and friends.  The Graduate Programme has had a positive influence on my career and I urge any like-minded Graduate to apply.”  Thomas Wheeler, SIS 

“I completed the Graduate Programme in 2006 and spent my placement with Letherby & Christopher, based at the Rowley Mile racecourse. After the placement, I was offered at full-time job at the company. Having the British Horseracing Graduate Programme on your CV opens a lot of doors - after three months I accepted a job at Horse & Rider Magazine, having long had a passion for writing and journalism. Within a year I was promoted to News Editor. Although the magazine is not particularly racing-orientated, I am doing my best to convert the readers – and press passes to race meetings are certainly a bonus! I have since had an interview at the Racing Post, which, although not successful, proved that with a bit of industry experience and the graduate programme under your belt, you will be considered for jobs that otherwise, you may never have even dreamt of going for!  I would definitely recommend the grad programme, not least for a lot of laughs and the great friends you’ll make along the way.”  Melanie Rutherford, Horse & Rider Magazine