Changing careers supported by Sports Turf Apprenticeship training

Date published: 3 February 2026

This is demonstrated through the journey of Phillip Shields, a Level 3 Sports Turf Apprentice at CAFRE’s Greenmount Campus and First Assistant Head Greenkeeper at Blackwood Golf Centre. By combining structured learning with day-to-day experience in a professional golf environment, Phillip has developed both the technical knowledge and leadership skills required to succeed in the sports turf industry.

Before entering greenkeeping, Phillip studied Law, achieving an LLB (Hons) and spending six years working in the legal industry. Redundancy during the Covid 19 pandemic became an unexpected turning point in his career. A temporary job at Holywood Golf Club, secured through a friend, introduced him to greenkeeping. This role quickly became far more than short term employment. During this period, Phillip built a solid foundation in turf maintenance, machinery operation, teamwork and health and safety.

“I quickly discovered how much I enjoyed working outdoors, problem solving, and seeing the results of your effort every day,” Phillip says.

CAFRE provided Phillip with the opportunity to turn his passion into a profession. Studying Level 2 and now Level 3 Sports Turf Apprenticeship courses strengthened his skills through a deeper understanding of turf science, soils, drainage and plant health and course management principles. 

“Studying at CAFRE helped me understand not just how to do the job, but why we do things a certain way,” Phillip explains. “That knowledge has made a huge difference to my confidence and decision making on the course.”

Within just ten months at Blackwood Golf Centre, Phillip progressed into the role of First Assistant Head Greenkeeper. He supports the Head Greenkeeper with planning and organising daily operations, overseeing course presentation standards, and working closely with the team to deliver consistently high-quality playing surfaces. 

Phillip’s commitment and progress through CAFRE have been recognised across the industry. He was awarded BIGGA Greenkeeper of the Year 2024, and more recently was selected as the only greenkeeper from Northern Ireland to join the BIGGA Future Turf Managers Initiative to further his development.

CAFRE also encourages students to act as ambassadors for their professions. Phillip is passionate about promoting greenkeeping and educating the public through TikTok and Instagram (@thatturfman), where he shares behind the scenes and educational content highlighting the skill, planning and effort involved in maintaining high quality golf courses.

With ambitions to become a Head Greenkeeper, work at a venue hosting a major golf competition, and eventually mentor the next generation of greenkeepers, Phillip’s story highlights how CAFRE’s Level 3 Sports Turf Apprenticeship training equips learners with the skills, confidence and industry connections to build a successful long-term career.

If you are interested in pursuing an Apprenticeship in Sports Turf, visit CAFRE on our Horticulture Open Day at Greenmount Campus on Wednesday 11 March. For more information and to book your place, please visit the CAFRE website.