GroundsFest has announced a new initiative: the GroundsFest Academy, which has been designed to provide free education for anyone working in groundscare and landscaping. By reinvesting profits from GroundsFest back into the industry, the academy aims to boost education, nurture talent and help bridge critical skills gaps.

The GroundsFest Academy offers a unique blend of theoretical and hands-on practical education, covering a wide range of essential topics. In its first year, the academy will focus on key subjects such as drainage and irrigation, machinery maintenance, synthetic surfaces, line marking and end-of-season renovations. These topics are just a taster of what the academy has planned, with even more areas of expertise to be covered.

Participants will not only gain insights from some of the most knowledgeable professionals in the field but will also earn Continuing Professional Development (CPD) points and certification, further enhancing their credentials and career prospects.

The GroundsFest Academy will see free educational days taking place at various accessible locations across the UK. Whether you’re an experienced professional looking to stay ahead of the curve or a student eager to enhance your studies, the GroundsFest Academy has something for everyone.

This initiative is also valuable for organisations, companies and local authorities. By providing free, high-quality training, the academy supports employers in developing their teams and filling critical skills gaps. It’s also a fantastic opportunity for students to gain industry-specific knowledge, helping them transition into the workforce with confidence.

GroundsFest has teamed up with sports turf lecturer Bradley Tennant to lead the delivery of the academy.

“Education is key to the continued success and development of our industry,” says Bradley. “The GroundsFest Academy is an incredible opportunity for anyone in the industry to gain free access to valuable training. It’s about equipping individuals with the skills and knowledge they need to thrive, and I’m proud to be leading this initiative.

“The GroundsFest Academy offers targeted training on subjects that matter most to professionals and employers alike.
“Whether you’re looking to advance your career, improve your team’s skills or explore new areas of expertise, the GroundsFest Academy is here to help.”