A Golf Greenkeeper is responsible for the maintenance, care and overall appearance of a golf course in line with employer’s requirements. It is their job to maintain a good quality playing surface and ensure the course offers a consistent challenge and an enjoyable experience for golfers.
There are four key turfgrass areas on a golf course – greens, tees, fairways and areas of rough, each of which requires a different type of maintenance. Using a range of equipment and machinery safely and competently will play a major part within an apprentice’s training programme. Golf Greenkeepers will also be involved in environmental and ecological operations which may include bunker maintenance, planting turf, trees, shrubs and developing wildlife habitats. The skills required to become a competent greenkeeper will be acquired whilst working on the golf course.
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.
Potential Job Roles
The skills developed during this apprenticeship can used anywhere around the world where golf is played and could eventually lead to a senior keeper position or course designer. These skills can also be transferred to other sports turf or grounds maintenance roles.
Course Content
The Golf Greenkeeper Standard comprises of 10 core topic areas which will cover both knowledge and skills:
- Health and safety
- Plant and grass identification
- Identification and control of weeds, pests, diseases and turf disorders
- Plant and soil science
- Turf maintenance
- Plant nutrition
- Machinery operation and maintenance
- Environment and ecology
- Irrigation and drainage
- Course rules and etiquette
The apprentice will also develop Core Behaviours including a strong work ethic, time management, integrity, flexibility, team working, health and safety mindset, problem solving, decision making, excellent communication
Delivery Method
The Golf Greenkeeping Standard is delivered using a blended learning methodology which includes both face to face visits and remote training sessions.
Expected Duration
Up to 24 months with a minimum of 12 months