31 July 2023
Is an Apprenticeship in Sportsturf Management a career option for you?
The first apprenticeship in Sportsturf Management is due to commence in September 2023. It is a two year course leading to a Higher Certificate in Sportsturf Management QQI Level 6. Learners can apply via Teagasc and SOLAS.
What does a Sportsturf Manager do?
A Sportsturf manager is involved in the production, management and maintenance of land used for sports and amenity areas including:
- Golf courses
- Race courses
- Sports pitches
- Parks
They plan and carry out the core maintenance tasks required. Typical tasks will include mowing, repairs, checking for and protecting against pests and diseases, facility set up as well as the operation and maintenance of the various pieces of equipment. It is a specialist area that requires suitably qualified professionals.
What skills will I learn?
By the end of your training, you will be able to:
- Understand the basics of soil science, drainage, and irrigation
- Identify turfgrasses commonly used in sportsturf in Ireland
- Apply plant protection products as a trained professional user
- Use professional reel and bedknife grinders to sharpen cylinder mowers
- Work safely and productively in a sportsturf setting, following appropriate safety, environment and risk checks
- Set-up, repair and maintain sportsturf specific equipment such as tractors, aerators, triplex mowers, fairway mowers, topdresser and sprayers
Is this a career option for you?
Have you a good level of physical fitness and enjoy physical work mainly outdoors? An interest in sportsturf and good communication and interpersonal skills is important. Due to the nature of this role particularly in relation to allergies and specialised machinery health and safety is key.
Where is the apprenticeship based?
This apprenticeship is managed by Teagasc Kildalton College. Apprenticeships combine on-the-job training and off-the-job training. The off-the-job lectures and practical demonstrations will be held in Kildalton College, Co. Kilkenny.
How do I become a Sports Management Apprentice?
Similar to all apprenticeships in Ireland you must be hired by an employer. Apprenticeship employers are formally approved by SOLAS in advance of employing apprentices. Apprentices get a formal contract of employment as part of their apprenticeship.
This apprenticeship is managed by Teagasc Kildalton College. If you are interested in the sportsturf management apprenticeship you should make contact with Marcella Phelan or Eamon Kealy at Teagasc Kildalton College, Piltown, Co. Kilkenny, E32 YW08 Tel: + 353 (0)51 644400
What does it cost?
As an apprentice, you earn while you learn. The employer pays you a salary while you are being trained on-the-job and off-the-job. The rate of pay is agreed between you and your employer.
The ‘off the job’ training will be completed at Teagasc Kildalton College. A student contribution of €1,500 in each of the two years of the training is paid directly to Kildalton College
More information
More information on this apprenticeship is available on the SOLAS Apprenticeships website
Further information is also available in the Teagasc apprenticeships section of the Teaagsc website