Apprentice Greenkeeper WALTON HEATH GOLF CLUB

What you will do in your working day

You will be working within a team of 16 Greenkeepers initially working on basic Greenkeeping duties and then being introduced to all golf course equipment and machinery. By working within a team over time you will gain experience and be involved in all areas of golf course maintenance and management. You must be prepared for early mornings and working in all weather conditions. The work is physically challenging, and a good level of fitness will be advantageous. You will work with and be trained by successful Greenkeepers with many years of experience in varied roles within the Greenkeeping industry.

Your job role will include:

• Golf course preparation
• A range of mowing
• Presenting and maintaining playing surfaces for golf
• Using and maintaining handheld/pedestrian/ride - on machinery
• Preparing and operating a tractor and attachments
• Renovating and repairing sports turf surfaces
• Preparing the ground for grass/plants
• Establishing grass/plants
• Monitoring and maintaining health, safety and security
• Establishing working relationships
• Developing your personal performance

Your training:

During your time Walton Heath Golf Club, you will be gaining technical knowledge and collating evidence of learning, be observed and receive training as to how the golf course operates.

This is averaged over a 15 – 24-month period and includes time spent at the beginning of the programme completing your enrolment & initial functional skills assessments. 

A qualified Greenkeeping Assessor will visit you in the workplace every four to eight weeks. 

You will study for a Level 2 Certificate in Golf Greenkeeping on a day release or online programme.

You will carry out an End Point Assessment to complete your training and gain your qualification.

The training you will be getting

• Level 2 Golf Greenkeeping Apprenticeship Standard
• Level 2 Functional Skills in maths & English (if required)
• One day a week for theory and practical at Berkshire College of Agriculture (BCA)

What to expect at the end of your apprenticeship

By the end of the programme, the apprentice will know when, how and why the range of maintenance operations are carried out.

The career as a Golf Greenkeeper can take you wherever the game of golf is played. Working outdoors in a healthy environment and as new countries are embracing the sport and more golf courses are being built, there is no better time to consider joining this great profession.