We recently spoke to Tilly, who is currently completing her Level 3 Racing Groom apprenticeship with Haddon Training at DML Racing. Having already achieved her Level 2, Tilly has been building her experience both on the ground and in the saddle as an amateur jockey. She shares her journey so far, what she enjoys about the apprenticeship, and why she would recommend it to others looking to start a career in racing.
Can you tell us a little bit about yourself and your background in racing?
I’m Tilly, and this is now my fourth year working in racing. I started with my Level 2 Racing Groom apprenticeship through Haddon Training after leaving school, and I’m now completing my Level 3 while working full-time at DML Racing.
What is it like working at DML Racing?
It’s like a little piece of heaven, to be honest. We’re in our own little bubble – not like one of your busier yards. Sometimes you just want to come to work, ride your horses, do your job, and be in a peaceful place. That’s exactly what it’s like here.
What have you enjoyed most about your apprenticeship?
I really enjoy the support from my Trainer Coach, Macey. It doesn’t feel like a formal lesson – it’s more like a conversation. We’ll sit down for an hour and chat about what I’ve experienced and what she’s experienced, so I learn a lot from her in a natural way. It makes it fun and engaging rather than just being told “do this, do that.”
The apprenticeship is also flexible, which is important in racing. If I’ve been racing late or busy with work, Macey understands and works around that. You still get everything done, but it fits into the reality of working in the industry.
How has the apprenticeship helped you progress?
It’s been really helpful for me. Moving from Level 2 to Level 3, I could see how much I had developed, especially in my riding. While working towards my amateur licence, I realised just how much I’d learned from being in a real racing yard every day. That hands-on experience has improved my riding and knowledge massively compared to if I had gone down a more traditional classroom route.
Would you recommend an apprenticeship in racing to others?
Definitely. The apprenticeship has been such a positive experience. It has allowed me to progress every single day and given me the opportunity to learn in a way that suits working in racing. If you love horses and want to work in this industry, it’s a brilliant way to gain experience and qualifications at the same time.
Are you interested in a future career in racing? You can find out more about our racing apprenticeships here.
If you have any questions about our apprenticeships or if you’d like to hire an apprentice for your business, please get in touch here.
