The new Training Needs Analysis service will benefit those who take part in appraisal systems as well as those who adopt a more informal staff development programme.

By meeting with each member of a grounds team, the IOG can draw up a unique learning plan for each individual, to help employers map out a development programme for the whole team.

The Training Needs Analysis works alongside the IOG’s Pitch Grading Initiative, which enables grounds staff to meet both their own and their employer’s goals linked to team skills and the quality of the sports turf surfaces they work on.

Sean Williams, head groundsman at Gloucester County Cricket Ground, has already made effective use of the Training Analysis Needs service. He said: “The recent analysis of GCCC staff has enabled the club to consider training routes we were previously unaware of. The service is impartial and considers all training providers, not just IOG courses.”