To celebrate Good Employment Week, we’re shining a spotlight on the employers who are investing in their people and creating positive working environments.
Based in Ditcheat, Somerset, Paul Nicholls Racing is one of the country’s leading National Hunt racing yards, led by renowned trainer Paul Nicholls OBE. We caught up with the team to explore the importance of apprenticeships in developing future racing talent, supporting staff and creating a workplace where everyone has the opportunity to thrive.
Can you tell us a little about the history of Paul Nicholls Racing and the business today?
Paul Nicholls Racing is a National Hunt yard based in Ditcheat, Somerset. Paul started his career in racing as a jockey before moving into training and taking out his trainer licence in 1991, where he began with just eight horses.
Over the years, we’ve built the business into one of the leading National Hunt racing yards in the country. We’ve been fortunate enough to enjoy a huge amount of success, including Cheltenham Gold Cups and Grand Nationals, but none of that would be possible without the team behind us.
Why is investing in apprentices and developing the next generation of racing professionals important to your business?
Bringing young people into the business and giving them the opportunity to learn is an important part of supporting the future of racing.
The industry relies on skilled, knowledgeable people, and we need to make sure the next generation has the opportunity to develop those skills. Apprenticeships offer a practical way for young people to learn while working alongside experienced members of the team. They can build their confidence, gain valuable hands-on experience and understand what it takes to work in a professional racing yard.
What benefits have you seen from having apprentices as part of your team?
Apprentices provide vital support with daily tasks and it’s incredibly rewarding to help them develop into skilled, confident team members. Investing in apprentices also plays an important role in securing the future of the racing industry.
How do you create a positive and supportive working environment for your team?
We believe it’s important to recognise and reward hard work, which is why we have an Employee of the Month award and an Employee of the Season award each year. We want to create an environment where everyone feels supported and staff feel comfortable coming into the office to discuss any concerns they may have. This allows us to listen to our team, understand their needs and provide support wherever possible. A positive working environment is built on good communication and making sure everyone feels they are an important part of the team.
How has working with Haddon Training supported your apprentices and your business?
Working with Haddon Training provides valuable support in helping our apprentices develop their knowledge and practical skills while working in the yard. The opportunity to combine day-to-day experience with structured training is particularly important in an industry where so much is learned through hands-on work. Having the support of a training provider helps apprentices work towards recognised qualifications while continuing to develop their confidence and competence in the workplace. It also helps ensure they understand the standards required in racing, particularly when it comes to horse care, welfare and working safely.
We are very pleased with the results so far and look forward to continuing working with Haddon Training.
Find out more about are racing apprenticeships and qualifications here.
Are you a business that is looking to hire an apprentice? Please get in touch with us here.
