The likes of Horse Racing Ireland and Godolphin support local schools through Business in the Community (BITC) initiatives.
Godolphin Flying Start is a two-year, full-time management and leadership training programme that specialises in the international thoroughbred racing and breeding industry. It offers trainees the opportunity to gain experience in Ireland, where its head office is based, as well as the UK, US, Australia and Dubai.
An immersive experience that takes visitors through the lifecycle of a thoroughbred racehorse, including the opportunity to ‘race’ their horse using state-of-art simulation technology.
A platform where children can learn more about horses in a kid-friendly way.
An opportunity to build links between racecourses and their local communities and to encourage an affinity with horses among the younger generation.
An onsite programme for children aged 10-16 whose ambition is to become a jockey. No riding experience is required.
RACE – Mobile Unit
A purpose-built vehicle, complete with racehorse simulator, audio-visual equipment and marketing and promotional material. which enables RACE to engage young people across Ireland.
RACE – urban equine projects
Long-standing links exist between RACE and Fettercairn Youth Horse Project (Dublin), Cherry Orchard Equine and Training Centre (Dublin) and the Moyross Youth Academy (Limerick). Read more about the Moyross Youth Academy and RACE urban equine project in this case study.
Bursaries
Third-level bursaries are offered by many thoroughbred industry participants to support students in equine-related programmes, as well as young people from local communities who wish to pursue a discipline that’s not related to the industry.
- Twenty-one bursaries are available to students studying equine management at Enniskillen Campus. These financial bursaries are provided by leading equine businesses and ancillary organisations.
- The Godolphin Bursary for students at St Paul’s Secondary School, Monasterevin, is awarded to a student who intends to continue to full-time study at an institute of technology or university in Ireland, or at an equivalent institution overseas.
The thoroughbred industry offers opportunities on the main Irish careers information portal.
Many thoroughbred industry organisations offer tours of their facilities to primary, secondary and tertiary level students.
These events take place at several Irish racecourses, including Leopardstown which attracts more than 10,000 students each year.
Work placements
Many thoroughbred industry establishments facilitate work placements for second- and third-level students, and young people involved with urban equine organisations.