Approx. duration: 18 months
Start date: Anytime
Attendance: All assessment and training is undertaken in the workplace with occasional visits to college
Entry requirements:
- Individual employers will set their selection criteria for applicants
- Apprentices need to be employed for a minimum of 30 hours a week and have a contract of employment
- Entry into the Apprenticeship is subject to a thorough skills scan assessment to clarify course suitability
- Entry onto the Apprenticeship is subject to 4 GCSEs grades 9-1/A-G including Maths and English or Functional Skills Level 1
- Apprentices aged 16-18 years are subject to the mandatory requirement to study towards and achieve English and Maths Functional Skills at Level 2 where the Apprentice only holds the level 1 qualifications (GCSE grades D-G/3-1)
- Following the updated ESFA Apprenticeship rules, from 11th February 2025. Apprentices who begin their apprenticeship training when aged 19+ will no longer be subject to this mandatory requirement. It is now the decision of the apprentice and their employer at the start of their apprenticeship to choose to study towards a Maths and English qualification
On-programme learning:
- Sports Turf Operative Standard
- English and Maths (if required) Level 2
Progression: Head Groundskeeper
Course Summary:
This occupation is found in a wide range of different sports and venues which can include:
- Athletics
- Bowls
- Cricket
- Croquet
- Football
- Hockey
- Equestrian
- Rugby league and union
- Tennis
The role will primarily be carried out in an outdoors environment and sites will range from general grass root sports surfaces, sports clubs, schools, up to international stadiums and training facilities.
The primary purpose of this role is to support the daily preparation, maintenance, and upkeep of grounds and sports pitches to the highest standards. This includes both public and private sports facilities used at all levels, from grassroots to professional sports, ensuring that the facilities meet government policies designed to promote physical activity.
Sports Turf Operatives are responsible for ensuring that all tasks are carried out in compliance with current health and safety legislation. They also manage the maintenance, renovation, and overall appearance of one or more sports turf surfaces, tailored to the specific needs of each sport. Their role involves maintaining a playing surface of appropriate quality, reflecting the surface’s capacity to ensure a sustainable and effective playing area.