Level 2 Sports Turf Operative Apprenticeship

– Maintain and renovate turf surfaces in a safe and appropriate way.
– Correctly calibrate equipment for material requirements and apply at the correct rates a range of materials, including grass seed, fertiliser and bulky top-dressing.
– Use integrated prevention and control methods to reduce the incidence of diseases, disorders, pests and weeds on turf.
– Set and mark out sports areas in accordance with the Laws of the Governing Bodies of Sport.
– Maintain tools, equipment and machinery used for maintenance and renovation activities to ensure their safe and effective use.
– Maintain and conduct basic routine servicing and repairs to drainage and irrigation systems
– Effectively communicate with others and provide an excellent level of customer service
– Work safely, efficiently and effectively at all times, whether under supervision as an individual or in a team.
– Compliance with policies and procedures – company, client, health and safety risk assessments, rules of the
game from the different Governing Bodies of Sport.
– The identification and correct application of materials, tools, equipment and machinery used in maintenance and renovation activities.
– Identification and understanding of different grasses, soil types, weeds, pests, diseases, turf disorders, artificial surfacing material, underlays, infill material, turf and soil reinforcement material, line marking materials.
– The principles of photosynthesis, respiration and transpiration in the growth and development of plants.
– The impact of weather, ground conditions and usage on pitch quality and playing quality.
– The different Performance Quality Standards for a range of different sports turf surfaces
– How to minimise waste and reduce environmental impacts.
– How to monitor, record and report basic grounds maintenance findings.

18 Months

This course is delivered remotely, allowing learners to study flexibly from home while still benefiting from regular interaction and support. Learners will take part in monthly online sessions with experienced tutors, providing an opportunity to review progress, discuss key topics, and engage in group learning. All materials and resources are provided through our secure online learning platform, ensuring a smooth and accessible learning experience.

Assessment overview –
Skills, knowledge and behaviours are assessed by competencies being displayed in the workplace, observations, employer feedback, assessor progress reviews, evidence collating and the employer enabling you to fulfil the requirements of your Apprenticeship.

On programme assessment will include various coaching and mentoring assessment methods. These assessments are designed to review the behaviours, knowledge and skills against set gateway criteria.

In addition you, your employer and the college are required to maintain an off the job training log evidencing new skills and knowledge being learnt over the duration of the apprenticeship.

The final grading of the apprenticeship will be carried out through an End Point Assessment, by an independent assessor.

A Graded Apprenticehip Certificate
This standard is recognised by the Institute of Groundsmanship (IOG), the Professional Body for Sports Turf Operatives and others working in the grounds care industry.
Upon achievement of this standard the apprentice will be eligible to join the IOG register of Turf Management Professionals.

This standard is recognised by the Institute of Groundsmanship (IOG), the Professional Body for Sports Turf Operatives and others
working in the grounds care industry. Upon achievement of this standard the apprentice will be eligible to join the IOG register of Turf
Management Professionals.

Progression could be to supervisory roles.

Level 2

– Safety orientation
– Positive work ethic
– Quality focused
– Team player
– Contributor to sustainability