Myerscough greenkeeping apprentices land prestigious scholarship

Darren Foster (pictured left) and Ethan Walker are among the five participants of the 10th Continue to Learn Scholarship, sponsored by growing solutions company, ICL.

Each year, ICL invites five BIGGA (British and International Golf Greenkeepers Association) members to attend the education programme at January’s annual BTME, Europe’s premier turf management exhibition, with the latest cohort representing golf clubs across the UK – from the west of England to the east of Scotland.

The two organisations recognise that the valuable career-development opportunities provided by the multi-day event are not available to every greenkeeper, with the cost of education, travel and accommodation proving an obstacle. The scholarship seeks to provide a level playing field for ambitious members who would otherwise miss out.

Ed Carter, Business Manager UK for ICL Turf & Landscape saod: “We’re pleased to continue supporting greenkeepers with the Continue to Learn Scholarship.

“Access to education is key to raising standards across the industry, and we want to help more BIGGA members develop their skills and progress in their careers.”

The scholarship provides the five candidates with three nights in a hotel and a comprehensive education package worth approximately £500.

To earn an ICL Continue to Learn Scholarship, BIGGA members must demonstrate a commitment to developing their own professional abilities by engaging with BIGGA’s Continuing Professional Development scheme.

Whether through in-person learning, reading this magazine, or by accessing resources on the association’s website, BIGGA members can enjoy thousands of learning opportunities, all aimed at improving their professional abilities.

Meet the Myerscough recipients:

Darren Foster

Greenkeeper, The Belfry

‘’I’m looking forward to building my knowledge and confidence within the industry and learning from other professionals. It will be a great chance to understand more about managing turf under current conditions, particularly around water management and adapting to climate challenges.

‘’I’m also keen to learn more about disease management and how I can apply this knowledge to improve the surfaces I work on, while continuing to develop my skills and progress within my greenkeeping career.’’

Ethan Walker

Greenkeeper, Enville Golf Club

‘’I know that nobody is perfect and I’m certainly no different, but I have a genuine drive to learn and build the knowledge that I need to progress in this industry. Knowledge is so important as a Greenkeeper, and I can’t wait to be able to experience BTME from a different perspective this time around.

‘’Learning from industry experts and tailoring the seminars to the areas that I need the most is going to be so useful for me. Last but not least - the networking opportunities! Being able to connect with like minded people in the industry will be so worthwhile and fun.’’