Local students were given an exclusive look at the inner workings of Market Rasen Racecourse last week, as part of a drive to encourage more young people to consider a career in horse racing.
Students at Springwell Alternative Academy were invited to the Lincolnshire track for a two-day event which included a range of activities, including a behind-the-scenes tour and a Q&A session with jockey Henry Brooke.
There was also an appearance from Retraining of Racehorses (RoR) ambassador Hally’s Kitchen, who strutted her stuff in the parade ring and was on hand for a personal meet and greet with the students.
Each element across the two days was designed to give students a new perspective and a chance to engage with the many different roles that bring a racecourse to life - in the hope that it can show all of the opportunities that the sport can offer outside of the action on the track.
The event was part of Market Rasen’s partnership with Springwell as its first ever official Education Partner, with the academy providing specialist provision dedicated to supporting and re-engaging children and young people with social, emotional and mental health needs.
Alice Cosgrove, Clerk of the Course at Market Rasen, said she was delighted to open the racecourse to the students across the two days.
She said: “We were delighted to welcome the pupils for two exciting behind-the-scenes experience days. From marketing workshops and machinery showcases to a guided tour with professional jockey Henry Brooke and meeting our Racehorse to Riding Horse Ambassador, Hally’s Kitchen, it was a truly memorable visit.
“Inspiring the next generation means opening our doors and creating meaningful, engaging experiences, whilst helping young people build confidence, discover new interests, and feel empowered about their future.
“Days like these remind us how important it is to share what we do and it was a pleasure to host such an enthusiastic and engaged group of young people. We look forward to working with Springwell Alternative Academy again in the future, as we build on our inaugural education partnership.”
Lindsay Fletton, who is part of the Pupil and Student Support Team at Springwell Academy, added: “It’s a big thing for these guys to come out on a trip and to experience something they probably wouldn’t otherwise experience, even in mainstream schools.
“It gives them different options, I didn’t even know about the different jobs and careers in a racecourse let alone the kids. I have no idea that jockeys had qualifications! It’s brilliant and there’s so many different avenues to explore. Something like this is really beneficial for our pupils to see what’s out there.”
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