Tag Archive for: BIGGA

BIGGA Professional Leadership Programme to Launch

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BIGGA Professional Leadership Programme to Launch: The British & International Golf Greenkeepers Association (BIGGA) has announced that its new Professional Leadership Programme will be ready for delivery from September 2026, marking a significant step forward in the association’s commitment to developing confident, capable leaders across the golf and turf management sector.

Mapped at Level 4, the Professional Leadership Programme has been specifically designed to bridge the gap between Level 3 supervisory and technical, and Level 5 management and agronomic qualifications . It provides a vital progression route for those who have moved beyond technical competence and are beginning to take on leadership, supervisory and management responsibilities, but who may not yet be ready for, or yet suited to, a full Level 5 apprenticeship or equivalent.

BIGGA Professional Leadership Programme to Launch

BIGGA Professional Leadership Programme to Launch

Developed in collaboration with St Andrews Management Centre and Epic Ltd, the programme is tailored to the realities of golf course and club operations. Rather than traditional classroom-based learning, it focuses on applied leadership, real-world management scenarios, reflective practice and practical activities that are directly relevant to participants’ day-to-day roles.

The programme is recognised by the Chartered Management Institute (CMI), ensuring it meets nationally recognised standards for leadership and management excellence. On successful completion, graduates will achieve Foundation Chartered Manager (fCMgr) status, providing formal professional recognition and a strong platform for future progression to higher-level study or apprenticeships.

The Professional Leadership Programme is pitched at current and aspiring supervisors, team leaders, deputy head greenkeepers, first assistants and those transitioning into management roles, as well as experienced practitioners who have developed leadership responsibility organically but are seeking structured development and professional recognition.

Commenting on the announcement, Rob Phillips, BIGGA’s Learning & Development Manager (Technical), said:
“The Professional Leadership Programme represents a significant step forward in how we support the development of leaders within greenkeeping and golf club operations. By working closely with St Andrews Management Centre and Epic Ltd, and securing recognition from the Chartered Management Institute, we have created a programme that is practical, credible, and genuinely relevant to the realities of our industry. This is about equipping people with the confidence, skills, and professional recognition they need to lead teams, manage change, and shape the future of golf.”

Rick Bond, Director of St Andrews Management Centre said:

“The St Andrews Management Centre is delighted to be working with BIGGA and Epic Ltd in delivering the Professional Leadership Programme which is recognised by the Chartered Management Institute (CMI).  The skills and knowledge that the programme modules bring to the greenkeeping sector, will be immensely valuable to the individuals, and will allow the post nominal of Foundation Charter Manager (fCMgr) to be awarded on completion of the programme. This is a key milestone on the journey to full Chartered Manager (CMgr) status.”

Peter Deakin, Associate Head of Partnerships at The Chartered Management Institute, added:

“The Chartered Management Institute (CMI) is proud to support BIGGA’s Professional Leadership Programme, appreciating it as a vital step in the continued professionalisation of the golf greenkeeping sector. By benchmarking the programme to CMI’s professional standards framework in conjunction with the St Andrews Management Centre, BIGGA demonstrates its commitment to management, essential leadership and strategic skills for greenkeepers and the importance of treating leadership as a core professional standard within greenkeeping. Programme delegates will receive access to resources, tools and services and become part of the 240,000-pan sector community of managers and leaders and we hope many will have ambition to become a Chartered Manager in the future.”

The launch of the Professional Leadership Programme reinforces BIGGA’s wider ambition to provide clear, high-quality education and development pathways for its members, supporting both individual career progression and the long-term sustainability of golf clubs and facilities across the UK and internationally.

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BIGGA unveils new initiatives to Elevate the game of golf

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BIGGA unveils new initiatives to Elevate the game of golf: The British and International Golf Greenkeepers Association (BIGGA) used its annual education conference and trade show in Harrogate to announce a series of new initiatives aimed at elevating standards across the game of golf.

The BIGGA Turf Management Exhibition (BTME) represents the association’s ‘championship week’ and provides a platform for the industry to come together from all corners of the globe. In 2026, it also provided an opportunity to clearly articulate what BIGGA exists to do and how it intends to support the profession as it continues to evolve.

BIGGA unveils new initiatives to Elevate the game of golf

BIGGA unveils new initiatives to Elevate the game of golf

BTME once again attracted exhibitors, speakers and visitors from across the UK and overseas, reflecting the global reach of the event and its profile within the turf management industry. Across the exhibition halls, the Continue to Learn education programme and networking spaces, the week showcased innovation, collaboration and best practice throughout the sector.

Across three show days, 4,567 visitors walked through the doors of Harrogate Convention Centre, representing an 8.7% increase on last year. Visitors stayed for an average of 1.60 days, up from 1.56 in 2025.

A new strapline to underpin the association’s work was also revealed by BIGGA CEO Jim Croxton: ‘We support greenkeepers through education, recognition and community to enhance course quality and to continually elevate the game of golf.’ BTME provided a clear demonstration of that purpose in action.

“BTME is our championship week and a moment to set out, clearly and confidently, what BIGGA exists to do,” said Croxton. “Everything we do is rooted in supporting greenkeepers through better education, stronger professional communities and meaningful recognition. When we do that well, standards on the ground improve, course quality rises and the game itself benefits.”

Croxton outlined a series of developments designed to provide greater long-term support for greenkeepers. Central to that work is a restructured education and training pathway, setting out clear progression from entry level through to course management, underpinned by BIGGA’s status as a Lantra Customised Training Provider.

That accreditation allows the association to deliver bespoke, industry-specific training that is independently quality assured while remaining directly aligned to the practical realities of greenkeeping.

Alongside education, BIGGA is modernising its membership offer to better reflect the way clubs and facilities now operate. This includes the introduction of more flexible membership options, expanded welfare support, and a strengthened approach to professional recognition.

As part of that, BIGGA has reached agreement with STRI Group to manage the popular Golf Environment Awards, ensuring environmental excellence is fully integrated into its awards programme and continues to be recognised as a core component of modern course management.

“These initiatives are not standalone announcements,” Croxton added. “They form a connected programme of work that reflects where the profession is now and where it needs to go next. Our focus is on providing clear pathways, relevant support and a sense of belonging for greenkeepers at every stage of their careers.”

Education remained a cornerstone of the week through BIGGA’s Continue to Learn programme, which provided a wide-ranging schedule of learning opportunities. In total, 5,877 hours of education were delivered, with bookings up more than 7% on 2025’s record turnout.

Designed to support professional development in a modern, practical and progressive way, Continue to Learn reflects BIGGA’s wider ambition to provide a coherent education pathway that supports progression from entry level through to course management.

Recognition also played a central role, with the BIGGA Celebration once again highlighting outstanding achievement across the profession. The awards shone a light on the dedication, resilience and professionalism of greenkeeping teams and individuals, reinforcing the value of their work to clubs, facilities and the wider game.

A further highlight was BIGGA Elevates, which brought together more than 50 women from across the industry for an event focused on visibility, connection and shared experience. Engagement continued beyond the room, with more than 35 participants joining the BIGGA Elevates WhatsApp community as the initiative begins its next phase of development.

Lauren Frazer, BIGGA’s Head of Commercial and Marketing, said the response demonstrated both appetite and momentum for continued progress.

“The turnout and engagement were hugely encouraging,” she said. “We heard inspiring stories, made valuable connections and opened up important conversations. This is very much the beginning for BIGGA Elevates, and we are already working on what comes next as the initiative continues to evolve alongside the support of the wider industry.”

BTME provided a clear statement of intent from BIGGA, reinforcing a cohesive strategy that will define the association’s direction of travel in the coming years. With membership at its highest level for more than two decades, the focus is on continuing to broaden the association’s reach and its impact.

Further detail on initiatives outlined during BTME will follow in due course as the association builds on the momentum generated during another landmark week in Harrogate.

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Burnham & Berrow and Royal Aberdeen claim BIGGA Awards

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Burnham & Berrow and Royal Aberdeen claim BIGGA Awards: The British and International Golf Greenkeepers Association (BIGGA) has revealed the winners of the BIGGA Awards 2026, recognising outstanding achievement, innovation and commitment across the greenkeeping profession.

Harrogate’s Royal Hall hosted the BIGGA Celebration sponsored by Bernhard Academy on the opening night of the BIGGA Turf Management Exhibition (BTME), with Sky Sports presenter Sarah Stirk announcing the winners.

Burnham & Berrow and Royal Aberdeen claim BIGGA Awards

Burnham & Berrow and Royal Aberdeen claim BIGGA Awards

The prize for Championship Greenkeeping Performance of the Year with Bernhard & Company was awarded to Burnham & Berrow, while the Greenkeeping Project of the Year award with Price Turfcare went to Royal Aberdeen on a memorable evening celebrating excellence across the profession.

Burnham & Berrow’s award recognised the team’s exceptional response to an unprecedented challenge ahead of Final Open Qualifying. With just eight weeks to act, the team delivered innovative solutions after deliberate chemical vandalism damaged multiple greens.

Working closely with The R&A agronomy team and industry partners, a tightly managed recovery programme culminated in full turf replacement, with independent testing confirming championship standards were achieved in time for the event.

“What a job the team did – not only my team, but the whole club,” said retired Course Manager Richard Whyman. “Twenty of the 27 greens were damaged and it was hard to see the grass dying in front of you.

“With it being my last tournament, it was difficult for me, but I pulled myself together and The R&A were incredibly supportive.”

Royal Aberdeen was recognised for a long-term project to safeguard the future of the historic Balgownie Links. Ongoing coastal erosion prompted a complex reconstruction programme, including new greens, tees and protective infrastructure.

Delivered largely in-house by a small team, the project demanded meticulous planning and adaptability amid challenging weather and tidal pressures, with judges praising the balance between preserving heritage and delivering practical, forward-thinking solutions.

“We know erosion is a big issue – not just for us, but right down the UK coastline – so we’re trying to implement measures to slow that erosion, with contingency plans in place,” said Course Manager Richard Johnstone.

“As for my team, they’re the real heroes in this – I just lead them. They’ve taken on a huge challenge, and I’m very grateful to the club for supporting us.”

The evening also saw BIGGA present its Outstanding Contribution award with Kress to John Millen in recognition of a career that has left a lasting impact on the association and the wider greenkeeping profession.

A highly respected figure within the industry, Millen has devoted decades to supporting education, professional development and the advancement of greenkeeping standards, earning widespread admiration from colleagues across the UK and beyond.

“I really can’t believe this,” said the 85-year-old, who is still working in education but has swapped playing golf for croquet. “Only a week ago I didn’t even know whether I’d be coming tonight – I’ve been here virtually every year. I just want to say thank you to everybody.

“Through greenkeeping, through our associations and through the game itself, for me it’s always been about people who are passionate about golf courses and about working for one another.”

The event also celebrated the incredible finale of an inspiring personal challenge, as Jack Percival bounded onto stage after completing his epic 300-mile run from Epsom. The senior greenkeeper at Royal Automobile Club undertook the run to raise awareness around mental health and funds for Percy’s Homeless Hub and the Greenkeepers Benevolent Fund.

The BIGGA Awards were established to recognise the exceptionally high standards, professionalism and dedication demonstrated by greenkeepers throughout the year. From major championship preparation to ambitious renovation projects and contributions that strengthen the profession, the awards highlight the vital role greenkeepers play in the success and sustainability of the game.

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BIGGA Approved as Lantra Customised Provider

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BIGGA Approved as Lantra Customised Provider: The British and International Golf Greenkeepers Association (BIGGA) is proud to announce that it has been formally approved as a Lantra Customised Provider, marking a significant milestone in the Association’s ongoing commitment to raising standards, professionalism, and access to high-quality education across the golf greenkeeping industry.

This approval recognises BIGGA’s capability to design, deliver and quality-assure industry-relevant learning that meets nationally recognised standards.

BIGGA Approved as Lantra Customised Provider

BIGGA Approved as Lantra Customised Provider

As a Lantra Customised Provider, BIGGA is now approved to develop and deliver bespoke, accredited training and awards that are tailored specifically to the needs of the golf and sports turf sector. This status ensures that BIGGA programmes are externally validated, quality assured and aligned with employer and industry expectations, providing learners and employers with confidence that training outcomes are meaningful, credible, and transferable.

The approval also sees the BIGGA Kickstart Programme formally recognised as the association’s first accredited and approved award under the Lantra Customised Awards framework.

This entry-level programme has been designed as an accessible and supportive introduction to the fundamentals of golf course maintenance.  It provides essential knowledge and practical understanding for those interested in pursuing a career in greenkeeping, as well as those already working in the industry who wish to validate their skills and knowledge before potentially progressing to formal Level 2 qualifications.

Rob Phillips, Learning & Development Manager (Technical) at BIGGA, said:

“Becoming an approved Lantra Customised Provider is a significant milestone for BIGGA and represents the latest step in our continued and highly valued partnership with Lantra. This approval gives us the ability to formally accredit BIGGA-designed programmes that are shaped by the realities of modern golf course management and the needs of both learners and employers. The accreditation of the BIGGA Kickstart Programme is particularly important, as it provides a recognised and credible entry point into the profession, while laying the foundations for clear progression through to apprenticeships and our recommended formal education pathway.”

David Fisher, Head of Industry Partnerships for Landscape and Rural, from Lantra added: “As part of our wider partnership working, we are really pleased to confirm BIGGA has been approved as a Lantra Customised Provider.

“The accreditation of the BIGGA Kickstart Programme is an exciting step forward, as it provides a recognised and credible entry point into the profession, providing a Lantra approved certificate for progression through to apprenticeships and further Lantra/ BIGGA approved training and qualifications.

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BIGGA launches new ‘BIGGA Elevates’ initiative

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BIGGA launches new ‘BIGGA Elevates’ initiative: The British and International Golf Greenkeepers’ Association (BIGGA) are proud to announce the launch of BIGGA Elevates – a new initiative that is designed to support, inspire and connect women working in golf and turf.

The inaugural event will take place at the BIGGA Turf Management Exhibition (BTME) at Harrogate.

BIGGA launches new ‘BIGGA Elevates’ initiative

BIGGA launches new ‘BIGGA Elevates’ initiative

It will be held in The R&A Clubhouse area within Hall 4 of the Harrogate Convention Centre on Wednesday 21 January at 4pm – and is being delivered in collaboration with The R&A and Syngenta.

Aimed at empowering women who work in a traditionally male-dominated industry, BIGGA Elevates will provide a welcoming, inclusive and relaxed environment where attendees can share experiences, access guidance, and build confidence.

The initiative’s aim is to foster a supportive community, helping women working in golf and turf to feel comfortable, free and confident in their careers.

The event will feature a panel session with inspiring speakers, including Jackie Davidson, Director – Golf Education at The R&A, TV presenter Sarah Stirk, and a female greenkeeper who will share her personal journey in the industry.

The panel will answer audience questions and provide insight into their experiences, offering practical advice and encouragement for women navigating their careers.

Lauren Frazer, Head of Commercial & Marketing at BIGGA, said: “We want BIGGA Elevates to be more than just an event – it’s about creating a community.

“We hope it brings women together to share experiences, learn from each other, and access resources and guidance. Working in this industry can be daunting at times, and this initiative is about giving women a platform to relate, connect and gain confidence.”

Sarah Hughes, SPS Business Manager UK & Ireland at Syngenta, said: “We’re proud to support the BIGGA Elevates event at BTME along with The R&A.

“It will be a great networking opportunity recognising the important contributions of women in turf care. Working in this industry myself, I see firsthand both the challenges women face and the exceptional skill they bring to the industry.

“It will be good to connect with greenkeeping professionals whose dedication and excellence are already inspiring future generations to join our industry. This event will provide a welcoming space for women to connect with each other at BTME, building the community and support networks that help us thrive.

“At Syngenta, we’re passionate about promoting diversity and inclusion because we know it makes for a stronger, more innovative golf sector.”

If your team includes any female greenkeepers, please ensure they register for this event. It’s open to all women attending BTME, with no BIGGA membership required.

The initiative reflects BIGGA’s commitment to promoting diversity and supporting women at all stages of their careers, creating pathways to growth and recognition.

For further information, please follow this link https://www.bigga.org.uk/about/women-in-golf-charter/bigga-elevates.html or  contact Lauren Frazer via email: Lauren@bigga.co.uk

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