Golf Greenkeeper Apprenticeship – Level 2

This occupation is found in a wide range of golf courses and a broad variety of golf course settings which are open and maintained all year round.

Golf greenkeepers spend most of their time working outdoors. They work in all seasons and can work in a variety of settings. They may be employed on golf courses such as a links golf course along the coast, or they may work inland on a parkland, downland or a heathland course. All golf courses have an outdoor space environment which will support health and wellbeing.

Golf courses throughout the country can be members clubs, often run and owned by the members or committees. Alternatively, they can be, private, public or municipal courses, owned and/or managed by individuals, companies or a local authority.

Golf clubs can range in size and stature, from championship courses and venues that host large tournaments through to smaller, local courses serving the local community. The broad purpose of the occupation is to improve and maintain good quality playing surfaces and ensure the golf course offers a consistent challenge and an enjoyable experience for golfers.

Golf greenkeepers typically begin work early in the morning and are responsible for the overall preparation, maintenance and management of the golf course. The greenkeeping team will maintain the course 365 days a year and whilst golfers are at play and members of the public are on the golf course.

Topics may include:

• Maintenance of golf greens, tees, fairways, surrounds, approaches, and areas of rough and semi-rough
• Preparation of the golf course for play, in line with the Rules of Golf and the employer’s requirements
• Identification and control of weeds, pests, diseases, and turf disorders
• Supporting the operation and maintenance of golf course drainage and irrigation systems
• Maintainance of wildlife habitats and environmentally sensitive areas within the golf course
• Preperation, setup, and use of golf course machinery to achieve required outcomes.