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Is Career Maker Programme right for you?
C
areers in Racing, the BHA’s careers marketing arm for the racing industry, launched the Volunteer Career Maker Programme in March 2019, designed to help inspire the next generation of young people to work in British racing. The aim of the programme is to equip the industry with a broader reach into schools on a national level and provide students with a greater understanding of the career and job opportunities available. The programme uses a network of volunteers, known as Career Makers, to share their experiences with students at careers fairs across the country, so they can hear the many advantages of a career in racing first hand. Why should I get involved? Members of The Thoroughbred Club would be ideal for the VCM programme because of their enthusiastic and passionate attitude towards the racing industry. Members would be given full training via e-training videos and could add real value to their CV. Speaking in public about the racing industry and their experiences could also help build confidence and communication skills. The recruitment process is simple: complete a short application form that requires some basic details and current involvement with racing. You would then have a one-to-one phone call with a member of the Careers in Racing team, discussing the closest schools to you and what the process involves. You might even want to attend the school you went to! After this you will be added to the private VCM workplace group, an online portal run by Facebook, which includes
have been lucky enough to gain a wealth of experience from working and studying with a wide range of people. “Being able to go and speak to my local community about the varied career paths available in the industry is very fulfilling, and letting young people know first hand what the industry has to offer is very rewarding.”
Students can be shown what’s on offer
a series of training videos from various stakeholders, including the British Racing School, National Horseracing College and the National Stud. This outlines what training the industry has to offer, which will enable you to answer any questions young people may have. Upcoming events and activities are also posted in this group and it gives a platform for others to communicate and share experiences. Once an event is agreed, you will be sent a pack that includes your own branded jacket/gilet, table cloth, banner and some of the leaflets/handouts used to give the public information on the varied careers. Alice Packwood is a Volunteer Career Maker, who studies at Oxford Brookes University. Alice has been involved in the industry in some capacity since the age of 14 and has held various roles as well as attending the British Racing School. Alice said: “I feel my enthusiasm towards racing thrives from my love of horses. I started out not having a lot of confidence, but I
Exclusive Ascot badge offer
Altior: Clarence House winner in 2019
Ascot has kindly offered Thoroughbred Club members half-price admission to the Matchbook Clarence House
Raceday on Saturday, January 18. The afternoon’s racing will feature the Grade 1 Clarence House Steeple Chase, won by outstanding chaser Altior in 2019. Half-price tickets can be purchased on the day from Ticket Office East upon presentation of a valid TTC membership card. For further information on upcoming badge offers to members please visit the TTC website or email info@ thethoroughbredclub.co.uk
Employer involvement with the programme The programme is also designed to help employers engage with their local schools so they are able to speak directly to potential staff about what working in the industry is like, day to day. Racehorse trainers Daniel and Claire Kubler are big advocates of the programme. They have not only spoken about it on TV but attended events. Daniel said: “As employers within the racing industry, Claire and I feel that we all have a responsibility to encourage the next generation of participants and staff, and have therefore supported the Volunteer Career Maker programme with our time and encouraged members of our team to do the same. “It was fun to spend a day at Windsor Horse Show on the Careers In Racing stand, sharing our experiences and showing youngsters and their parents the opportunities within racing.” If you are interested in becoming a Volunteer Career Maker, visit the Careers in Racing job board, where the application form will be in the highlighted jobs section and complete the Wufoo form.
Diary Dates and Reminders Saturday, January 18 Matchbook Clarence House Chase Raceday Ascot racecourse Tuesday, January 21 National Hunt Stallion Showcase Goffs UK Sales Complex, Doncaster Thursday, January 30 TBA Flat Stallion Parade Tattersalls, Newmarket Further information on all events can be found on the TTC website
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