Under the new partnership, Weatherbys Racing Bank will help fund roving maths and English tutors who will provide support to BRS apprenticeship students at racing yards around the country, helping young people gain the qualifications, confidence and skills they need to progress in their careers.
As well as providing financial support for the initiative, Weatherbys Racing Bank will also aim to offer mentoring to trainees and help them achieve the maths and English qualifications needed to complete their apprenticeships.
BRS students aged between 16 and 18 must work towards a Level 1 or 2 qualifications in both maths and English to complete their apprenticeships.
Opening up opportunities in racing
British Racing School Chief Executive Andrew Braithwaite believes the new initiative can play a key role in opening up opportunities for young people and supporting the next generation of talent in British racing.
He said: “At a time when our industry continues to face shortages of stable staff, supporting young people to enter, qualify and progress within the sport has never been more important.
“Horseracing gives our students a career they’re passionate about, a sense of purpose and a feeling of belonging. But they still need maths and English skills to thrive, alongside their vocational skills.
“Importantly, it isn’t just a case of ticking boxes by gaining these necessary qualifications. It’s about real skills, building confidence and helping young people fulfil their potential within the sport.”
A natural partnership for Weatherbys
Roger Weatherby, Chairman of Weatherbys Banking Group, said: “I spent time at the British Racing School early in my career, so I know from first-hand experience what an impressive place it is and the important role it plays in developing people for the racing industry.
“We’re delighted to support this initiative, which will help students build the academic skills and confidence they need to progress in their careers.”
Mentoring shaped by racing experience
One person who in many ways embodies the initiative is Tom Jonason, who spent six years working alongside champion National Hunt trainer Paul Nicholls before entering banking.
A racing fan from an early age, Jonason served as an assistant trainer. He later joined Weatherbys Racing Bank and then Weatherbys Private Bank, where he is a Principal Private Banker.
He said: “I met so many inspiring and profoundly impressive people during my time in racing, including many youngsters who were just embarking on their own careers in the industry.
“Having experienced the grassroots environment at first hand, I can really appreciate the value that mentoring can bring in strengthening and sustaining the talent pool.
“As well as assisting students academically, there could be opportunities to share insights on what it takes to advance a career, how to survive and thrive in a work setting and so on.
“Given the bank’s links to the sport, everyone at Weatherbys wants to see horseracing in the UK flourish. It essentially gave us our start, so we’re always keen to give something back.”