Course Overview

You need to be employed to start an Apprenticeship. Please visit our vacancy page or if you have an employer, please ensure you add full contact details of your employer within your application. If you are unable to secure employment, you could enrol on a full-time study programme and transfer to an Apprenticeship at a later date. Please apply for a full-time course as your second option.

This greenkeeping apprenticeship is designed to provide you with the knowledge, skills and behaviours to operate at an advanced level where supervisory and/or specialist technical and agronomic skills are required.

Upon completion you will have the necessary skills to supervise the greenkeeping team and the maintenance of the golf course, in the absence of the Head Greenkeeper or Golf Course Manager. You will be able to assist in the planning, supervision and implementation of the maintenance, care and overall appearance of a golf course in line with your employer’s requirements.

This apprenticeship is recognised by the British & International Golf Greenkeepers Association (BIGGA), the Professional Body for Greenkeepers.

This apprenticeship includes achieving the Level 2 Award in Safe Use of Pesticides (PA1) along with either PA2 (Boom Sprayer) OR PA6 (Hand Held Applicators). You will also achieve a Level 2 qualfication in maths and English if you have not already undertaken this.

You will develop knowledge, skills and behaviours in the following areas:

• Health and safety
• Personal and professional development
• Effective communication in the workplace
• Supervision of staff
• Advanced golf course preparation and maintenance
• Construction of golf course features
• Supervision of the use and maintenance of equipment and machines
• Integrated pest control management
• Environmental management
• Finance and project management

Assessment Methods

• Workshops and/or one to one sessions
• E-portfolio
• Written questions
• Skills journals
• Employer feedback
• End-point assessment (professional discussion, practical task and written exam)

Progression Options

• Golf Course Manager apprenticeship
• Senior positions within a golf club
• Employment in other sports facilties including grounds maintenance
• Specialist employment including irrigation, spray or machinery technician