On March 27th, 2025, we ran the second-to-last masterclass of the academic year, this time with the team at Reading Football Club. This year’s sessions include some new practical elements, and the students got stuck into a full day of hands-on learning, split between the stadium and the training ground.
The morning began at the stadium, where students were given a tour before joining Head Groundsman James Stabler and Deputy Head Groundsman David Newell. They explained how GLS works and what’s involved in maintaining a stadium pitch, including their fertiliser approach and the reasons behind it.
After the talk, we moved outdoors to sow wildflower seeds around the stadium—one of the new additions to this year’s programme. We’d like to thank DSV UK and Samuel Horner for supplying the seed. Their support makes these days possible.
After lunch, we made our way to the training ground. Matt Gardiner and Scott O’Nyons welcomed us before the group split.
Victoria Fiander, Assessor in Horticulture & Sports Turf at Lackham College, led a tree-planting session, while Bradley Tennant worked with the rest of the students on line marking and demonstrated the 345 method. Everyone took part and asked solid questions throughout the afternoon.
The Reading FC spring masterclass was another strong day of practical teaching. Huge thanks to the staff at Reading FC and to all the students for bringing plenty of energy and focus. The final masterclass of the year isn’t far off—more on that soon.