How to become a groundsperson
You can get into this job through:
- a university course
- a college course
- an apprenticeship
- working towards this role
- specialist courses run by a professional body
University
You could do a foundation degree, higher national diploma or degree in:
- sports surface management
- sportsturf management
- horticulture
Entry requirements
You'll usually need:
- 1 or 2 A levels, or equivalent, for a foundation degree or higher national diploma
- 2 to 3 A levels, or equivalent, for a degree
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College
You might find it helpful to do a college course before looking for work. Course subjects include:
- Level 2 Certificate in Sports and Amenity Turf Maintenance
- Level 2 Certificate in Practical Horticulture Skills
- Level 3 Diploma in Horticulture
Entry requirements
You'll usually need:
- 2 or more GCSEs at grades 9 to 3 (A* to D), or equivalent, for a level 2 course
- 4 or 5 GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 (A* to C), or equivalent, for a level 3 course
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Apprenticeship
You could do the Sports Turf Operative Level 2 Intermediate Apprenticeship to become a groundsperson.
You could specialise in working on golf courses through an intermediate or advanced golf greenkeeping apprenticeship.
With experience, you could move on to do the Sports Turf Technician Level 3 Advanced Apprenticeship.
Entry requirements
You'll usually need:
- some GCSEs, usually including English and maths, or equivalent, for an intermediate apprenticeship
- 5 GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 (A* to C), or equivalent, including English and maths, for an advanced apprenticeship
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Work
You might be able to find work as an assistant groundsperson without qualifications. You could then work your way up by getting experience and studying on the job.
Other Routes
You could do a qualification with the Grounds Management Association. They offer courses at different levels in turf surface maintenance and management.
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Professional and industry bodies
You could join the Grounds Management Association for professional development and to make industry contacts.
Further information
You can find more advice about a career as a groundsperson from the Grounds Management Association.