Level 2 Sports Turf Operative Standard

About the course

A Sports Turf Operative may also be referred to as a Groundsperson and in some cases a Grounds Maintenance Operative linked to a sporting facility. This occupation exists to ensure that public and private sports facilities are available for use by the public and ensures facilities are available to support the Government policy of increasing physical activity. A sports turf operative is responsible for the maintenance, renovation and overall appearance of one or more sports turf surfaces in accordance with the needs of the particular sport. It is their job to maintain a quality playing surface which reflects the carrying capacity of that surface to ensure that a sustainable playing surface is provided. The career as a Sports Turf operative can be quite varied, potentially working across a wide range of different sports and venues, including athletics, bowls, cricket, croquet, football, hockey, horse racing, ruby league and union, tennis and ranging from general park type sports surfaces to first class stadiums. Working in the outdoor environment is a healthy and therapeutic activity, which contributes to the wellbeing of employees as well as users of sports surfaces. With the vast range of natural or artificial turf pitches available, throughout the UK and worldwide, now is an excellent time to join this well established and dynamic profession.

Sportsturf studies

There are fantastic opportunities both in the UK and overseas for people who are trained and qualified in sportsturf. Careers exist at all levels, from assistant groundspersons and greenkeepers to managers of international sports facilities such as Premier League Football Clubs and the major elite Golf Courses. Our courses will equip you with the skills that are necessary to build, maintain and manage quality turf surfaces to a high standard.

Students learn the science behind how grasses grow, as well as soils, drainage and a wide range of maintenance practices. You will gain an understanding of the demands of sport and what players need or expect from turf surfaces. You will be taught how to provide these conditions all year round and in all weather conditions.

A solid reputation

Myerscough College enjoys a fantastic reputation across the UK and Europe as one of the leading providers of sportsturf education. Ex-students from the programmes can be found at some of the top sporting venues across the country including Wimbledon, the Santiago Bernabeu in Madrid and St Andrews.

Excellent Facilities

Myerscough benefits from superb sportsturf facilities including a nine-hole golf course, fully automated irrigation systems with various controllers and fittings, turfgrass research laboratory and more. The department has also recently had a brand new turfgrass unit built, offering specialist workshops, classrooms and research facilities.

A World of Opportunity

There are fantastic opportunities throughout the world for people who have training and qualifications in sportsturf. All our course equip you with the skills, knowledge and experience to progress to either the next level of education, or a career within the industry.