INTRODUCTION
The British Horseracing Authority( BHA) has developed the Rider Competency Standards as a comprehensive framework to define the professional requirements for riding in the racing industry.
This standard serves as a guide for career development, safety protocols, and behaviour expectations. The standards are set out in stages that define which type of horses they are expected to be skilled enough to ride.
PURPOSE OF THE FRAMEWORK
This document is designed to standardise expectations across the industry by providing a clear structure for three primary user groups:
• For Aspiring & Current Riders It acts as a professional career roadmap. It details the specific milestones— from basic riding skills at the Entry Stage to the specialised high-performance skills of the Advanced( A1 & ASC) Stages— required to progress in the industry or prepare for Jockey Licensing Courses.
• For Training Providers It provides a curriculum, assessment and feedback framework, helping providers align recruitment and training with the practical demands of horseracing.
• For Employers It provides a recruitment and benchmarking tool. Trainers can use the standard to support the assessment of future and current staff capabilities accurately, assign riders to appropriate horses, and identify areas for further training.
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