The Horseracing Industry People Board, British Horseracing Authority, and British Racing School have introduced the Rider Development Pathway to improve coaching and career progression for riders in British racing. Starting in early 2026, the program will provide structured training from entry-level to advanced stages, including jockeys. It aims to raise riding standards and support the sport's workforce development.
The Rider Development Pathway (RDP) represents a coordinated effort to enhance skills across British horse racing. Announced by the Horseracing Industry People Board (HIPB), British Horseracing Authority (BHA), and British Racing School (BRS), the initiative connects training, coaching, and career support for riders at all levels. It targets everyone from young pony racers to yard workers and aspiring jockeys, with a focus on safe, consistent skill development.
Funded by the BHA, Racing Foundation, and Horserace Betting Levy Board, the RDP is delivered by the BRS following a competitive tender. Central to the program is the Rider Competency Matrix, developed with input from skilled riders, former jockeys, and employers. This framework outlines required skills at each career stage, from entry to advanced levels, ensuring clear progression routes.
Launching in early 2026, the pathway will prioritize coaching in training yards, led by former Classic-winning jockey George Baker as Head of Coaching. His team will collaborate with trainers to upskill staff against the competency matrix. Additional elements include regional workshops for nationwide access, development of in-yard coaching qualifications, and extension to pony racing as an entry point. The program also continues the Jockey Coaching Programme, which has supported 133 conditional and apprentice jockeys since 2014.
Tom Scudamore, a former jockey and HIPB member, emphasized its value: “The Rider Development Pathway brings everything together into one clear, nationally recognised programme – improving the quality and consistency of coaching, supporting rider well-being and performance, and giving people at every stage a clearer route to progress and build a long-term career in the sport.”
Dr Eleanor Boden, the HIPB's Education, Development, and Careers Programme Lead, added: “The Rider Development Pathway is a hugely important project which will help to enhance the quality of rider coaching across the industry and support the career progression of riders within the horseracing workforce.”
Andrew Braithwaite, Chief Executive of the BRS, highlighted the school's role: “Our aim is to enhance the quality, consistency, and accessibility of coaching provision across British horseracing through our highly skilled and credible rider coaches.”
Rob Sage from the National Trainers Federation noted its practicality: “The Rider Development Pathway is an important initiative offering trainers access to high quality coaching, delivered in their own yard.” Trainer James Owen agreed: “Better riders lead to better horses so anything that helps support this has got to be a positive.”
This rider-focused pathway is the first in a series planned for other racing workforce segments, aligning with the industry's broader strategy to attract and retain talent.
