Training materials
Golf Greenkeepers are entitled to obtain a nationally recognised qualification for any formal training undertaken. These are Work based Diplomas (previously known as National Vocational Qualifications (NVQs)), or, in Scotland, Scottish Vocational Qualifications (SVQs). Both are explained below.
The GTC also publishes a training manual, which covers all the craft level skills required by a greenkeeper.
Compiled with the backing of the golf industry, the manual has been carefully prepared to support students embarking on a career in golf greenkeeping. It comes in a personal organiser format with a gold blocked cover and is used as the main evidence collector incorporating the standards of the Vocational Qualifications in Level 2 Sportsturf.
Training courses complementing the Training Manual are available at GTC Approved Training Providers.
The GTC has also developed learning materials to complement the training manual (Level 2 learning materials) and also for learners seeking information which relates to Diploma in Golf Course Supervision/SVQ Level 3.
The materials have been developed in association with specialists within sports turf, health & safety, ecology and management.
The GTC believes training should not be restricted to the basic craft level only but will be in a format which enables greenkeepers to further their career prospects through a programme of learning throughout their career. The system allows greenkeepers at any stage to enter or leave the system at a level appropriate to themselves.
The GTC are looking to share their Best Practice Learning Materials through the Internet.
The Learning Materials have been developed by the GTC and several subject specialists have written chapters, which can now be accessed and downloaded through a Hot Link from this site.
The Learning Materials were originally designed to assist learners working towards their Sports Turf Vocational Qualification Levels 2 or 3 however the Approved Centres have now adopted the learning materials for use with greenkeeping students on a range of courses.
The materials are also available in Hard copy and CD ROM formats and an application form is available through the publication section on this site.
New online training materials
GTC are now producing an online course for delivery over the Internet. To see a demo of some of the course material and experience our online learning environment first hand (which includes e-assessments, tracking and other features), visit http://www.greenkeepingtraining.co.uk for more details.
