On 14th November, Cheltenham Racecourse welcomed students from The Secret Garden School for an autism-inclusive experience supported by Autism in Racing CIC. The visit gave students the chance to explore behind-the-scenes areas, learn how racing works, and enjoy a calm, structured introduction to the sport. Despite strong winds, steady rain, and winter-grey skies, the students who were mostly visiting a racecourse for the first time embraced the day with curiosity and calm.
Preparing Students for an Autism-Inclusive Racecourse Tour
Preparing Students for an Autism-Inclusive Racecourse Tour
The group was greeted by our Autism in Racing team members Gaz, Venessa, and Jason alongside staff from Cheltenham. Teacher Danny accompanied the students, helping set a steady, reassuring tone that carried throughout the visit. Gaz later mentioned how impressed he was by the group’s patience, especially considering the weather: calm, composed teenagers who took each part of the experience in their stride.
Teaching Students How Racing Works in a Sensory-Friendly Way
The tour began near the paddock and weighing room, areas rich with detail that many racegoers rarely get to explore up close.
Gaz introduced the students to the fundamentals of racecards, ratings, jockey weights, fixture allocations, and the many numbers and figures that tell the deeper story of each race.
Cheltenham Racecourse on Supporting Autism Inclusion
Cheltenham’s commitment to creating accessible spaces was clear from start to finish. A designated quiet room was prepared with sensory supports, low-stimulation lighting, this gave students space to decompress between activities and became a helpful base for anyone needing a break from the wind and noise.
Grant Rowley of Cheltenham Racecourse reflected on the visit:
“It was a real pleasure having The Secret Garden School with us recently. Even with the wind and rain, the students were fantastic. They were curious, patient, and full of good questions. We are big supporters of the work Autism in Racing is doing, and we are proud to play our part in helping more young people experience Cheltenham, as well as other Jockey Club Racecourses, in a comfortable and welcoming way.”
Students Experience Live Racing for the First Time
The experience concluded in the stands, where the group watched the afternoon’s racing unfold. Several students shared that it was their first-ever live race, and many said they would happily return to the races whether on another school trip or with their families. One student, who has been to show jumping, even commented that Cheltenham was “much nicer” than other racecourses they had visited.
Building a More Inclusive Future for British Racing
The day at Cheltenham demonstrated how collaboration between racecourses and Autism in Racing CIC can open the sport to young people who may otherwise feel excluded. With thoughtful planning, supportive staff, and a willingness to adapt, racing can become an environment where neurodivergent visitors feel genuinely welcome.
Cheltenham’s partnership helped make this day possible, and we look forward to working together again as we continue to build a more inclusive future for British racing.
This visit highlighted how thoughtful planning and strong collaboration can make racing more accessible and welcoming for neurodivergent young people
Explore our upcoming Autism in Racing Events → links to Autism In Racing Events page - https://www.autisminracing.com/events