Tag Archive for: GMA

GMA campaign kicks-off to attract future workforce

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GMA campaign kicks-off to attract future workforce: New research to coincide with #GroundsWeek finds high levels of job satisfaction and fulfilment among grounds staff and volunteers, urging those outside of the industry to try grounds management

  • Those who work outdoors get greater fulfilment from their roles, and feel more rewarded than those who work behind a desk (77% vs 47%)
  • 63% of grounds staff and volunteers “love” their job, and almost all (90%) are passionate about the sector
  • Key attributes of a career in grounds management include being outdoors and active, taking pride in the end result, working in sport, and the day-to-day variety
  • This #GroundsWeek, the GMA is encouraging more people to work outdoors in sectors like grounds management or horticulture  
GMA campaign kicks-off to attract future workforce

GMA campaign kicks-off to attract future workforce

The Grounds Management Association (GMA), the leading not-for-profit membership body for grounds professionals and volunteers, is marking its annual #GroundsWeek (28th February – 6th March) with a campaign to help tackle the lack of skilled talent coming into the industry.

Targeting young people and those already in employment in other sectors, #GroundsWeek aims to reach those taking stock of their personal and professional trajectories and reassessing what they truly want from life. With the backdrop of the pandemic, fulfilment is key.

The GMA’s recent survey of over three hundred grounds staff and volunteers show high levels of job satisfaction and fulfilment, with 63% saying they “love” their job, and almost all (90%) report being passionate about the sector. Some of the key attributes of a career in grounds management, as reported by both paid staff and volunteers, include:

  • Being outdoors and active
  • Taking pride in the end result
  • Working in sport
  • The day-to-day variety
  • Working as part of a team
  • Learning new skills

Geoff Webb, CEO of the GMA, says: “After highlighting the recruitment crisis, now we want to show the world the true potential of working in grounds management. Work can dominate most of our time so it’s important to consider how a job makes us feel. We know there are challenges across the sector, but we also know that grounds management is a varied and rewarding role – it gives people who love sport and outdoor activities the opportunity to work in a variety of settings like iconic sports venues, educational grounds, parks and estates, as well as across local community sports facilities. By sharing the positives and tackling the misconceptions that exist, we hope to attract more talent into the sector.”

To coincide with this year’s #GroundsWeek, the GMA has also released separate research highlighting that people with jobs in the outdoors, including grounds staff, get greater fulfilment from their roles, with 77% saying they feel rewarded and a strong sense of achievement at the end of each day. This is compared to 47% of people working behind a desk. The research further highlights that those working indoors or behind a desk feel a greater negative impact on their physical (43% vs 35%) and mental health (50% vs 18%), compared with those who work outside.

The research also reveals that 83% of indoor workers would consider a career change, with the desire to learn new things (49%), greater variety of daily tasks (33%), and wanting to spend more time outdoors (73%), being the most commonly cited reasons. What’s more, over a third (34%) of indoor workers feel unfulfilled in their current roles. In contrast, 73% of outdoor workers view their current role, and its future opportunities, as a career for life.

Geoff Webb continues: “Grounds staff work with skill, dedication, and passion to produce quality surfaces for sports and recreational spaces all year round. Labelled the ‘hidden profession’, a key focus for us now is helping more young people and those outside of the sector understand what it involves, and how to get into grounds.”

With a booming sports sector in the UK and growing demand in the turf care sector for skilled talent, the GMA is encouraging more young people and those tempted by a career change to consider a career in grounds management. To encourage more young people into the sector, the GMA has been working closely with schools through its ‘Schools into Stadia’ initiative, which introduces GCSE-level school children to the art of grounds management through a series of one-day workshops, showcasing the profession as an ideal opportunity to work in an outdoor environment within sport.

The GMA is also working to elevate the grounds sector by tackling its misconceptions and upskilling future workforce through its training and qualifications. Its annual salary framework is imperative to shaping the future of grounds management and help employers understand minimum rates of pay based on the skills required at each level.

John Wright, Chair of the GMA Young Board, and Head Grounds Manager at Southampton FC, says: “I joined this sector a decade ago because I love sport and the outdoors, and this is a career that allows me to be involved with both. Now, I can’t imagine doing anything else. 

“There are vast opportunities for people in this sector and career fulfilment is something that so many of us within it feel on a day-to-day basis. This #GroundsWeek, I hope young people and those who might not feel satisfied in their current job think about learning more about grounds management, because this could definitely be the right career move for them.”

For more information about the GMA and this year’s GroundsWeek campaign, visit: [thegma.org.uk/groundsweek]

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3% pay rise recommended by GMA

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3% pay rise recommended by GMA: Following research commissioned by the Grounds Management Association (GMA), conducted by Myriad Research*, a recommendation of a 3% increase in national minimum salary bands for all levels of grounds staff is being recommended this year by the not-for-profit membership organisation.

In addition, the GMA suggests that the ‘bonus’ amounts paid in recognition of those with GMA qualifications should increase to £675 per band – a rise of 3.8% – extending from £675 for Level 1 accreditation up to £4,050 for Level 6.

3% pay rise recommended by GMA

3% pay rise recommended by GMA

The increases outlined in the GMA’s 2022 National Salary Framework report are made against a backdrop of forecast growth in the economy (of 6.5% in 2021 and 6% in 2022), as well as projected increases in both CPI (Consumer Price Inflation) and RPI (Retail Price Index) inflation.

The GMA’s recommended national basic salary bands, with effect from 1 January 2022, relate to the minimum basic salary and are not ‘salary ranges’. There is no maximum salary specified for grounds staff as experienced staff in some sectors (notably professional sports) would be expected to earn well above the average in other sectors. If this is the case, these recommendations can be used purely as a recommendation for annual uplift. Bonuses, overtime, and subsistence payments have not been included and are therefore additional. Regional pay variations have been considered, with higher cost areas of the country expected to make salary awards at the upper levels of the appropriate band.

To accompany the recommended salary bands, the GMA publishes sample job descriptions that reflect the typical job responsibilities and experience required for each level within the industry career hierarchy. The GMA recommends that competent and effective job performers whose job content relates closely to the ‘standard’ position description should be paid at the mid-point and upper pay levels of the bands.

Following the GMA’s research, the recommended salary bands for 2022 are:

Job Level National Basic Salary Bands Per Annum (lower end) National Basic Salary Bands Per Annum (upper end)
Grounds Manager £38,230 £59,224
Head Groundsperson £32,605 £44,750
Deputy Head Groundsperson / Sole Charge £26,675 £34,045
Groundsperson (Skilled) £24,946 £31,823
Groundsperson £19,986 £25,496
Junior Groundsperson (aged 17) £16,993 N/A
Junior Groundsperson (aged 16) £14,112 N/A

 In addition to the updated salary bands, it is recommended that all grounds staff receive financial recognition within the salary scale for successful completion of a relevant professional qualification, such as those offered through GMA learning. The total amount received should be directly linked to the highest level of qualification attained, with the highest amount, awarded for those who hold a GMA Level 6 qualification, being an additional £4,050 to the individual’s existing salary.

Geoff Webb, CEO of the GMA says:

“The GMA is working to elevate the sector and its perception so that, in turn, grounds staff get increased recognition and reward – such as salaries that meet the level of skill or demand.

“With a stagnant economy riding the pressures of COVID-19, many industries are facing economic challenges, but our National Salary Framework is imperative to shaping the future of grounds management.

“But we can’t do this alone. We must all work together to educate those outside of our sector to help understand it’s value. You can visit our website to find out more about the practical ways this salary framework can support your role or recruitment.”

GMA members can access the full report via their online member portal at: https://thegma.org.uk/user

The GMA’s Training Needs Analysis service is designed to support managers and grounds staff in mapping out a training and education journey. To find out more, visit: https://thegma.org.uk/learning/training-needs-analysis

To improve your knowledge and develop the skills needed to receive a higher salary, see our training options at: https://thegma.org.uk/learning

Gain access to our full report, as well as a wide range of other member-exclusive benefits, by becoming a GMA member. Find out more at: https://thegma.org.uk/membership

*The research was carried out independently by Myriad Research (www.myriadresearch.co.uk) using several data sources for analysis.

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‘Mr SALTEX’ inducted into GMA Hall of Fame

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‘Mr SALTEX’ inducted into GMA Hall of Fame: The Grounds Management Association (GMA) today announces that SALTEX Operations Director, Derek Walder, also known as ‘Mr SALTEX’, will be the third inductee into its industry Hall of Fame.

This latest honour, the most significant gesture of appreciation the GMA can award, follows Derek’s Institute of Groundsmanship (IOG) Lifetime Achievement Award in 2014 and is being awarded to Derek as an acknowledgement of an illustrious career in the industry spanning more than half a century.

‘Mr SALTEX’ inducted into GMA Hall of Fame

‘Mr SALTEX’ inducted into GMA Hall of Fame

Derek’s career has seen him involved in many corners of the groundscare sector, including 26 years as the grounds manager at Wimbledon Football Club’s training site during a legendary period in the club’s history which involved working alongside the notorious group of Wimbledon players known as the ‘Crazy Gang’.

Derek first got involved in SALTEX operations in 1970 as one of many members dedicating their own time in order to ensure SALTEX was a success. His time involved in SALTEX has seen him deal with many important moments in the show’s history, like when the show moved from outdoor venues to an indoor one and, most recently, the challenges posed by the Covid-19 pandemic and ensuring the safety of visitors at this year’s show. This year, marks his 40th delivery of the annual trade exhibition.

His induction into the GMA’s Hall of Fame means that Derek is just the third inductee, joining legendary grounds managers, the late Eddie Seaward MBE, former Head Groundsman at the All-England Lawn Tennis Club and Steve Braddock, Head of Grounds Management at the Arsenal Football Club training centre. His award represents the many crucial roles being played behind the scenes that keep the sector, and its events, running.

GMA CEO, Geoff Webb, commenting on Derek’s latest honour, says:

“Our Hall of Fame recognises outstanding contributions to the industry and Derek’s achievements go far beyond turf management by bringing together the groundscare sector successfully under one roof year on year. Derek has shown unswerving dedication to the success of SALTEX, and this award is richly deserved.”

On receiving his honour, Hall of Fame inductee, Derek Walder, says:

“There’s no ‘i’ in ‘team’; I am surrounded by a great bunch of people who consistently commit 100 per cent to the show. I’ve been delivering SALTEX for a long time, but at the end of the day we’ve got a good team and that’s what makes it a success.”

An in-depth feature on Derek, and his journey in grounds management which led to his induction into the Grounds Management Association Hall of Fame, was published in the Winter 2021 edition of the GMA’s member magazine, Grounds Management, a preview of which you can read by clicking here.

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GMA education programme continues to grow

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GMA education programme continues to grow: The Grounds Management Association (GMA) reaches a significant milestone in its online training with more than 2,000 enrolling for its courses since the pandemic began.

Now, the not-for-profit member organisation adds two new courses to its training offering; Online Level 2 Cricket Surfaces (Applied Turf Culture) and the first face-to-face training course since the Covid-19 pandemic began, Level 2 Racecourse: Turf Management.

GMA education programme continues to grow

GMA education programme continues to grow

Taking around 6 hours to complete, Online Level 2 Cricket Surfaces (Applied Turf Culture) is ideal for volunteers or new additions to grounds teams seeking to develop their skills and learn about the importance of preparing a playing surface with the implementation of an annual maintenance plan.

Students who successfully complete the end of course assessment gain valuable knowledge and applicable skills for day-to-day maintenance activities and a certificate of achievement, whilst the course’s specialist content will be crucial for all aspiring cricket grounds staff or volunteers.

Whilst expanding its online training suite, the GMA also announces the return of face-to-face training with a 5-day training course at the British Racing School. Taking place from 14 – 19 November 2021, Level 2 Racecourse: Turf Management teaches students how to apply the theory required to understand the science of racecourse grounds maintenance and will be equally relevant for individual grounds staff as well as Clerks of the course.

Developed in conjunction with the Racecourse Association and the British Horseracing Authority, the 5-day course will be delivered by industry experts, Alan Lewis NDT, Adrian Kay, Head Groundsman at York Racecourse and Richard Linley, Senior Inspector of Courses at the British Horseracing Authority, with accommodation and food covered in the package.

Dan Prest, Head of Technical and Learning, said:

“It has been an incredibly challenging 18 months, but one thing that hasn’t changed is the drive from so many in the industry to continue in their professional journey and development working in the turf-care sector. Whilst we’ve all had to adapt to a more online-orientated work and study life, we know how valuable practical face-to-face training courses are.

We’re also pleased to be developing more content than ever to align with our Pitch Advisory Service objectives to help volunteers get the most of their local natural and artificial surfaces.”

You can sign-up to online Level 2 Cricket Surfaces (Applied Turf Culture) by clicking here.

Or to find out more about Level 2 Racecourse: Turf Management, click here.

More details on the Pitch Advisory Service can be found on the GMA’s website.

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GMA secures grassroots investment

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GMA secures grassroots investment: Today, the Grounds Management Association (GMA) announces a £3.9M investment from the Premier League, The FA, and Government’s Football Foundation with Sport England to deliver the association’s third phase of the pitch improvement programme for grassroots sports.

Formerly known as the Grounds and Natural Turf Improvement Programme (GaNTIP), the newly named Pitch Advisory Service (PAS)is part of the GMA’s ongoing commitment to help improve natural turf provision across football, cricket, rugby union and rugby league at grassroots level in joint collaboration with the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB), Rugby Football Union (RFU) and Rugby Football League (RFL).

GMA secures grassroots investment

GMA secures grassroots investment

After a year of disruption to sport, the GMA’s Pitch Advisory Service will continue to focus on raising the standards of pitches to increase playability, maximise player experience and decrease the number of cancellations due to declining pitch quality.

The programme provides an enhanced network of GMA turf care specialists available to people and organisations maintaining natural turf pitches within local communities, with the funding boost growing the number of GMA advisers available to them by almost 30 per cent.

The Pitch Advisory Service also offers access to dedicated, sport-specific key account managers at the GMA – a team of grounds management specialists bringing years of grassroots and professional knowledge to the programme. Key account managers work collaboratively with each National Governing Body of Sport (NGB), as well as Sport England, to deliver national objectives to sustain high levels of sport and physical activity, now and in future years. During 2019-20, the regional pitch advisors visited more than 4,500 pitches, with the programme improving grounds maintenance practices at 91% of the sites visited.

With lockdown placing sport and physical activity on hold, maintaining playing surfaces remained a vital task for volunteers across the country. New digital applications like the Football Foundation’s PitchPower helped clubs facilitate pitch inspections during restrictive periods, which were each reviewed digitally by the GMA’s regional pitch advisors removing the need for a face-to-face site visits. Despite the COVID-19 restrictions, PitchPower allowed the PAS to carry out three times as many pitch assessments as before it was launched and it will remain an important tool now restrictions ease.

During this time, the GMA also supported the ECB in getting recreational cricket played by providing COVID-specific grounds management advice and working with the ECB Facilities Team to engage with local authorities to maximise the number of facilities available in a challenging 2020 season. New online webinars and training courses helped volunteers expand their learning and network with regional pitch advisers.

In addition, the Football Foundation Groundskeeping Community app, managed with support from the GMA, saw a 43% rise in users during lockdown and now has 2,670 engaged members, with numbers continuing to grow.

Innovative and collaborative practices, like online services and applications, will be at the centre of the Pitch Advisory Service, with the GMA providing high-quality recommendations and advice to best support clubs of all shapes and sizes, as well as local authorities, both online and offline.

Through its partnerships, the GMA also aims to increase the number of volunteers, improve skills and knowledge through its training, and provide leading guidance and information for those involved in, or connected to, grounds maintenance at clubs. The programme will also look at ways to encourage women, as well individuals from diverse backgrounds and walks of life to get involved, with the aim to build a strong future workforce.

Next year, the GMA aims to launch an industry-leading Pitch Grading Framework that will provide a benchmark for pitch standards, alongside a simple, affordable education pathway for all grounds staff and volunteers to gain the right level of understanding for each type of pitch.

Jason Booth, COO at the GMA, said:

“We’re grateful for the investment in our Pitch Advisory Service that supports local communities and players. Since 2014, our partnerships with the NGBs and Sport England have grown stronger with each phase of delivery. Now, six years later, we’re seeing huge progress through enhanced education and training of volunteer and professional grounds managers. We want to see millions more enjoying the benefits of playing surfaces – whether it’s to develop sporting talent or just for fun.”

“Through our research, we will continue to highlight the challenges within the turf care sector, but we’re now focussed on developing the future workforce with the aim to recruit, retain and reward volunteers for their commitment. The GMA is here to support volunteers with credible information, advice and guidance – connecting it with an extensive network of grounds people from all walks of life.”

“We hope that this programme signals a change in fortune, particularly at a time when restrictions ease and a sense of normality begins.”

Robert Sullivan, CEO, Football Foundation, said:

“Over the past six years, the Pitch Advisory Service has done a wonderful job supporting community football clubs to maintain and improve their grass pitches. During the COVID-19 pandemic the network came into its own; quickly adapting to work with new digital tools, developed by the Foundation, to ensure pitch quality didn’t suffer as a result of the restrictions.

This new funding means that the PAS can continue to do its essential work providing the football community with the information, training and skills needed to raise the standards of football pitches for the millions of community footballers in England.”

Charles Johnston, Executive Director of Property, Sport England said:

“We are delighted to be working with partners to deliver the Pitch Advisory Service. This collaboration will provide an exciting and transformational service to improve grass pitch quality and develop a more diverse and experienced workforce of groundspeople.

“Pitch quality is important for both player experience and development, so it’s exciting to consider the positive change the multi-sport service can make in tackling inequalities through targeted pitch improvements. As set out in Sport England’s new 10-year strategy, ‘Uniting the Movement’, tackling inequalities within sport and physical activity is at the heart of what we intend to do over the next decade, and services such as this are powerful vehicles to achieve this.”

Bruce Cruse, Director of Facilities and Infrastructure at the ECB commented:

“The ECB is delighted to join the GMA, Sport England and our colleagues from across pitch sports in the challenge to provide outstanding support to grounds management and grass roots sport. Providing great experiences for participants is the foundation of life-long love of sport and in cricket so much relies on access to quality pitches and supporting of the people who make that happen.

“As the ECB is committed through it’s ‘Inspiring Generations’ strategy to connect communities and improve lives this new partnership forms a vital step in the delivery of the plan at the grassroots level and will do so much for the long-term sustainability of our sport.”

For more information on the Pitch Advisory Service, please visit: https://thegma.org.uk/pitch-advisory-service

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