Greenkeeping and Sportsturf

Modern Apprenticeship

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What's Greenkeeping and Sportsturf like?

Are you searching for a pitch-perfect career? This Greenkeeping and Sportsturf Modern Apprenticeship will allow you to sow the seeds of an exciting new role!

You'll gain the skills you need to work in Scotland's land-based sector. Specialising in either greenkeeping or sportsturf, you'll gain valuable experience in a hands-on role.

At SCQF Level 5, you'll focus on introductory land-based duties. This could include basic mowing, simple irrigation tasks and applying seed or fertiliser.

Once you finish the apprenticeship, you may be able to move on to SCQF Level 6. Or you could study other relevant work-based, Further Education or Higher Education qualifications.

At SCQF Level 6, your work steps up a level! You'll likely operate ride-on machinery, complete advanced mowing patterns and monitor the health of grass – among many other things.

Completing the Modern Apprenticeship at SCQF Level 6 puts you in a good position to apply for roles as a deputy head greenkeeper or deputy head groundsperson.

What's the qualification?

You'll gain a Modern Apprenticeship at SCQF Level 5 or 6. 

Your qualification includes:

SCQF Level 5

  • Diploma in Greenkeeping at SCQF Level 5

Or

  • Diploma in Sportsturf at SCQF Level 5

SCQF Level 6

  • Diploma in Greenkeeping at SCQF Level 6

Or

  • Diploma in Sportsturf at SCQF Level 6

SCQF qualification levels explained

What will I learn?

As part of this apprenticeship, you'll learn about:

  • risk assessments and why they're vital

  • the importance of personal protective equipment (PPE) in this industry

  • issues posed by climate change and how they're relevant to your workplace

  • safe ways to dispose of waste

  • communicating safety and work-related information to others

  • handling any issues that arise, or reporting major problems to senior members of staff

You’ll also develop the following core skills:

  • communication

  • numeracy

  • information and communication technology

  • problem-solving

  • working with others

These transferable skills can be used for different jobs in other sectors, too.

Where could it take me?

There's a range of options after completing this Modern Apprenticeship. You could progress to more advanced studies, or build your career in the land-based industry.

Further study: increase your knowledge and career prospects through different courses. For example, you could study an SVQ in Landscaping at SCQF Level 6.

If you've completed the Greenkeeping and Sportsturf Modern Apprenticeship at SCQF Level 6, you can progress to Further or Higher Education.

Career advancement: successful apprentices could apply for roles such as deputy head greenkeeper or deputy head groundsperson.

Apprenticeships: the Greenkeeping and Sportsturf Modern Apprenticeship at SCQF Level 5 puts you in a great position to progress on to SCQF Level 6.

Greenkeeping and Sportsturf Modern Apprenticeship framework

Entry requirements

There are no formal entry requirements for the Modern Apprenticeship at SCQF Level 5 or 6. Although, you must be employed in a suitable job to gain the experience and knowledge you need to earn the qualification. You should also:

  • be prepared to attend off-the-job training

  • have the ability to develop the range of skills and knowledge needed to complete the apprenticeship

  • enjoy working with others

  • have a positive attitude towards learning

When considering your application, an employer may focus more on your skills and experience, rather than formal qualifications.

How does it work?

You’ll learn in a real-world environment and earn a wage. You’ll also study with a college or another learning provider.

How long will it take?

The Modern Apprenticeship at SCQF Level 5 will take up to 18 months to complete. Whereas, it'll take you around two years to achieve the Modern Apprenticeship at SCQF Level 6.

How to apply

Use the 'Find vacancies near you' search at the end of this page to look for vacancies, then you can apply online.

You'll apply on Apprenticeships.scot or the company’s own website – there are details on the vacancy advert.

Find vacancies near you