Due to the success of the Western Cape branch The South African Jockey Academy expanded to Eastern Cape in January 2006. The branch is run ex jockey Tex Davie.

Prior to the opening of the Eastern Cape branch, apprentices from Durban who were sought after by the Eastern Cape trainers, were flown up to the windy city on race days to ride in races. As is the case with the Western Cape branch, apprentices may not enter the Eastern Cape branch directly but are rather chosen to relocate to the branch if it is felt that they may serve racing better and grow their careers more successfully in Eastern Cape .