Your chance to become a greenkeeper

Lantra, the Sector Skills Council for environmental and land-based industries represents the horticulture, landscaping and sports turf industry, and helps ensure that Northern Ireland has the right skills to keep our golf courses in tip-top condition.

David Winn, Lantra’s Partnership Manager says: “Greenkeepers play a vital role in golf course maintenance and management, and carry out a range of tasks to make sure the course is maintained to the highest possible standard. Golf course maintenance is essential to any golf programme or club, that’s why it’s important to make sure that the people caring for these courses for the right skills.”

Training courses and qualifications are available at all levels to allow ambitious and enthusiastic individuals work towards becoming a greenkeeper. Vocational training and qualifications are available as are more college-based qualifications. There is something for everybody.

David concluded: “If the environment is your love, conservation and ecology are at the heart of a greenkeeper’s role. Flora and fauna are to be found on golf courses, and as a greenkeeper you will be the custodian of the natural environment.

“There has never been a better time for a career in the sports turf industry. With approximately 80 golf clubs across Northern Ireland, most employing between five and ten greenkeepers, there are always openings for new staff. It’s a rewarding career with a healthy lifestyle, which could also take you across the world.”

To find out more about greenkeeping contact David Golding, Greenkeepers’ Training Committee on 01347 838640 or the British and International Golf Greenkeepers’ Association (BIGGA) on 01347 833800.