Meet Thomas

Name: Thomas
Course: Greenkeeping Apprenticeship Level 2

Tom was enjoying working for his current employer Foxhills Golf Club when they suggested he undertake an Apprenticeship , enabling him to progress his learning whilst he stayed in role. Moving from a temp job to full time, the golf club saw the opportunity for Tom to gain from studying his Level 2 Greenkeeping qualification, supported by Oaklands College.

As a more mature learner, by his own admission Tom says it was a while since he last studied, but having regular visits from his assessor to work and the flexibility and ability to complete much of the work at home in his own time made it easy for him to manage his time.

In an average week, Tom received on the job training from colleagues and also completed coursework at home. Monthly tutor visits helped Tom to set targets and keep things on track.

A highlight of this Apprenticeship experience was receiving the ‘Student Greenkeeper of the Year’ award at the annual industry seminar for the British and International Golf Greenkeepers Association (BIGGA), held at the College this February.

With his apprenticeship now in the bag, Tom plans to continue working for this current employer and develop his on the job learning.

For Tom, taking an Apprenticeship over full time study much suited his lifestyle, as he would not have been in the position to stop work entirely in order to study.

He said: “I would definitely recommend an Apprenticeship to anyone who prefers to learn with a focus on practical skills. You need to be self motivated enough to complete the coursework in your own time, but I had a great experience and am thankful to my tutors for their support.”