March 2025 Maintaining high standards
GMA And ECB launch apprenticeship support scheme This pilot initiative is designed to strengthen the future of cricket by attracting and supporting more aspiring grounds professionals. With the demand for skilled grounds managers growing, the scheme aims to provide apprentices with not only the technical knowledge required for cricket-specific turf care but also the essential support they need to develop their careers.
The GMA has joined forces with the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) to launch the ‘Apprenticeship Support
Scheme’, designed to enhance the experience of grounds people apprentices in First Class Counties.
generation effectively. The GMA will provide tailored cricket-specific online courses to supplement apprentices’ learning, as well as bespoke webinars designed to enhance their knowledge and better prepare them for a career in cricket grounds management.
It also aims to address broader industry challenges such as workforce retention and succession planning by making apprenticeships a more structured and attractive career pathway.
Apprentices will also have access to GMA membership, unlocking a range of benefits including the GMA Member Assistance Programme - a 24hour confidential counselling and wellbeing service alongside online technical resources, salary advice and guidance, legal consultation and much more.
At the same time, it provides additional support for existing grounds professionals, ensuring they have the resources and expertise to mentor and develop the next
The ECB Pitch and Grounds Advisor, Andy Mackay, will play a central role in the pilot, acting as a key point of contact for employers seeking advice on apprenticeship support.
Andy will also work with stakeholders to develop an information and support hub, and resources to help promote grounds management as a career, laying the foundation for an allrounded scheme in the future. Jason Booth, Chief Operating Officer at the GMA, said: “Apprentices are the future of the grounds management industry and providing them with the right support is essential to achieving high standards across professional cricket. Andy Mackay said apprenticeships were a fantastic way to develop skills and discover talent, whilst having the potential to set people on the path to a rewarding and enjoyable career.
Ride On Mowers Jane Carley looks at the market Pages 14-18
The GMA Enquiry 27
Howardson Group bids farewell to Roger Moore After 17 years of outstanding service, Roger Moore has announced his retirement from the Howardson Group. Roger has been a familiar and respected figure within the company. Having joined as a Customer Manager, his role evolved to encompass sales, marketing, and customer support, making him an integral part of the business. Over the years, he has built strong relationships with key
industry organisations, including the GMA, BIGGA, SAPCA, EBA, SBA, WBA, CGBA, and numerous representatives from cricket, football, rugby, tennis, and croquet, as well as the press. Alongside his colleagues, particularly Alison Pickering, Roger has played a leading role in organising and developing events in the UK and abroad, dealer days, press days, export dealer events, and the company’s brochures, websites, and overall marketing strategy.
The highly regarded seminar programmes for bowls, cricket, croquet, football, and rugby have been running for over 20 years, and Roger and his team have continuously refined and enhanced them.
As a senior team member, Roger’s wisdom and experience have played a crucial role in the company’s growth, contributing to an almost ninefold increase in sales during his tenure.
When SISIS was acquired in early 2011, Roger was instrumental in developing a detailed 90-day integration plan to successfully merge Dennis and SISIS - a significant challenge that had never been undertaken before.
Managing Director Megan Oliver, Chairman Ian Howard, and everyone at Howardson Group extend their sincere gratitude to Roger for his dedication and contributions over the years and wish him all the best in his retirement.
Grass Seeds & Wildflowers The latest products making their mark Howardson Group Enquiry 28
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For more information or a no obligation demonstration call 01332 824777 or visit www.dennisuk.com
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READER ENQUIRY 29
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