On January 30th, we returned to The Caversham to host the third Masterclass of the academic year for the Level 2 Sports Turf Operative (Lantra) students at Wiltshire College & University Centre. After reviewing feedback from previous sessions, we refined our approach to make the day even more interactive. Our goal was for the students to be able to apply what they learned in a real-world setting.
This session covered a broad range of topics, including bunker maintenance, machinery pre-start and post-operation checks, proper equipment cleaning and storage, data collection, hole changing, and measuring green speeds with a stimpmeter. Rather than focusing solely on theory, we gave the students plenty of opportunity to get hands-on experience, reinforcing key techniques they’ll use in their careers.
The day began with a welcome talk, covering health and safety, course etiquette, and an introduction from Jon Scoones, who shared his background and offered insights into maintaining bunkers and water features.
The morning then moved into practical demonstrations, starting with machinery pre-start checks before the students practiced different bunker raking techniques. They learned the importance of attention to detail, and how the direction of raking and proper rake placement affect playability and course presentation.
Following this, the students worked through the washing down of machines and post-operation checks before breaking for lunch. The afternoon session split the group in two, with one group focusing on morning dew and debris removal before switching or brushing and mowing a green, and the other changing golf hole positions and measuring green speeds.
After rotating groups, we were onto the final activities: repairing damaged turf and positioning tee markers. The session wrapped up with a demonstration of how to determine green speeds using a stimpmeter and prism gauge, where students could see the impact of cut quality on performance.
Throughout the day, students were able to build on their knowledge of environmental and safety regulations, governing body rules, machinery operation, and the effects of climate on turf conditions. They practiced skills such as preparing and maintaining equipment, managing soil moisture levels, and repairing sports turf surfaces.
We want to extend a huge thank you to Jon Scoones and the team at The Caversham for their ongoing support. They consistently go above and beyond to create an environment where students feel welcomed and can learn from professionals who take pride in their work. By the end of the day, every student left having gained new skills and connections. And that’s what it’s all about: fun and engaging education.
