The GTC, as one of the Government's Apprenticeship Trailblazer organisations, has received approval to write further occupational Standards for the Greenkeeping sector.

In March this year, the GTC commenced its work to review and reform the Golf Greenkeeping Apprenticeship Standard, with the full support of England Golf and BIGGA. Now work can commence on developing new standards for 1st Assistants, Deputies, Head Greenkeepers and Golf Course Managers.

Skills Minister Nick Boles said, "I congratulate The Greenkeepers Training Committee for the key role it is playing in developing new top-quality apprenticeships. Through the trailblazers initiative companies like the GTC, in collaboration with their industry partners, will give people the skills they need to thrive and our businesses need to compete".

David Croxton, Proprietor of Cold Ashby Golf Club and Chair of the GTC's Trailblazer Group believes the latest news will further enhance the already well established greenkeeping apprenticeship programme.

David said, "The support the GTC has received from employers who have already benefited from recruiting and training apprentices has encouraged the GTC to continue its lead in improving the standards of apprenticeships at all levels.

David Golding, GTC's Education Director added,"it is again a proud day for the greenkeeping sector and many people should take credit for all the hard work with GTC Trailblazer project. We not only now need to reform the Golf Greenkeeping apprenticeship, but now have two further sets of Standards to develop that will take education and training to whole new level and ensure our apprentices become global ambassadors for golf greenkeeping and course management."

Since the GTC received Government approval in March it has been working on developing a new programme of education and training as well as introducing a new graded, independant assessement at the end of the apprenticeship.

The GTC has engaged with small, medium and large golf club employers and leading Course Managers (through BIGGA and turf representatives from colleges and training providers), who have all had an input into the new Standard.

The new Golf Greenkeeping apprenticeship is due to commence in September 2015 with higher apprenticeships to follow in 2016.