The Qualification and Training
What Is An Apprenticeship?
An Apprenticeship is a set of qualifications, called a 'framework'. In horseracing the framework comprises:
- A National Vocational Qualification (NVQ) (Level 2 Racehorse Care for Apprenticeships and Level 3 Racehorse Care and Management for Advanced Apprenticeships)
- Key Skills - Communication, Application of Number, Working with Others and ICT
- Technical Certificate (Intermediate for Apprenticeships and Advanced for Advanced Apprenticeships)
- Emergency First Aid Qualification
Apprenticeship - Level 2 is the equivalent to five good GCSE passes and allows entry onto an Advanced Apprenticeship
Advanced Apprenticeship - Level 3 is the equivalent to two A level passes
How Does An Apprenticeship Work?
Apprentices learn on the job, building up knowledge and skills, gaining qualifications and earning money all at the same time.
Racehorse trainers (employers) all over the country recognise and value Apprenticeships as they show that you've been trained in the skills they require in a member of their stable staff team.
How Will I Be Assessed For My National Vocational Qualification?
The Northern Racing College has a dedicated team of Quality Assurance Officers (assessors) who you'll meet during the last two weeks of your 12-week Foundation Course.
Once you start work for a racehorse trainer your assessor will be your main point of contact at the Northern Racing College.
For the duration of your Apprenticeship you'll have regular contact with your assessor, who will be just a telephone call or e-mail away should you need them between visits.
Your assessors will visit you at your racing stable or even at the races or bloodstock sales approximately every 8 - 10 weeks. They will also visit you within four weeks of you joining a new stable.
During visits, which may be outside of your working hours, your assessor will observe you carrying out specific tasks and will ask you questions relating to that task. This form of assessment demonstrates that you are capable of performing that task and that you also understand the task and are competent talking about the task.
Between your assessor's visits your employer and yard mentor will support you and will ensure you continue to make progress.
The majority of the training is called "on the job training"; to complement this you will also be encouraged to complete "off the job training".
Every six months you will be invited to return to the Northern Racing College for one week's "off the job" training during which you'll receive intensive training and the opportunity to complete assessments.
Returning to the College will allow you to complete the qualification in a shorter time period.
How Will I Be Assessed For My Key Skills?
Key Skills are usually completed at the Northern Racing College during the 12-week Foundation Course. In cases where it has not been possible to complete the Key Skills these will be done either in the workplace or during "off the job" training at the Northern Racing College.
How Will I Be Assessed For My Technical Certificate?
The Technical Certificate is a multiple choice paper which will be completed either at the Northern Racing College or in the work place.
When Will I Complete My Emergency First Aid Qualification?
The emergency first aid qualification will be completed during the Foundation Course at the Northern Racing College.
Who Can Start An Apprenticeship?
Every student who completes an NVQ Level 1 Racehorse Care at the Northern Racing College and demonstrates the right aptitude to work in the horseracing industry will commence an Apprenticeship qualification.
Students on an Apprenticeship programme must work for a licensed racehorse trainer with an English postcode. This work placement will be secured for the student by the Northern Racing College.
Students wishing to commence an Apprenticeship must have reached their 16th birthday and not exceeded their 65th birthday.
Who Is Suited To An Apprenticeship?
If you have a clear idea of the career you wish to follow, and prefer to learn through experience then you will benefit from an Apprenticeship. Apprentices must be motivated to complete the training and must demonstrate a willingness to learn, often in the workplace without strict supervision.
Do I Have To Pay For An Apprenticeship?
No, the Learning and Skills Council covers the cost of training.
Why Do An Apprenticeship?
Doing an Apprenticeship means you can earn while you learn, and learn in a way that is best suited to you - learning through hands on experience on the job.
Earnings
Research shows that apprentices earn, on average, over £100,000 more throughout their lifetime than other employees. Your career doesn't have to stop at the Advanced Apprenticeship, if you want to go on to University you will find many institutes of Higher Education value your skills and knowledge and will happily offer you a place on a Foundation Degree or other higher level qualifications.
Support During Training
The Northern Racing College will make sure you have a mentor in your place of work. Their job is to ensure that your training fits your personal requirements, offers the skills needed for the job and satisfies national standards. They will also be there to help you through any difficult times.
Prospects
Apprenticeships can be demanding but they are very rewarding. Because Apprenticeships train you in the skills employers want, they give you choices in your career. When you've finished you can carry on working, maybe get promoted or go on to higher education in a college or university.
