Investing in apprentices will help golf clubs thrive despite the challenges of an uncertain economic future, according to one of West Dunbartonshire’s leading course managers. David McBride, who supported May’s Scottish Apprenticeship Week, has trained many of the area’s best Green keepers during his 30 year career. And as education convenor of the International Association of Green keepers, he believes training is the key to a successful future. David, course manager at Vale of Leven Golf Club, Alexandria, explained: “It makes good business sense to invest in training, such as Skills Development Scotland’s Modern Apprenticeship (MA) programme. It is cost-effective, it means you get your staff trained the way you want them trained and it is very satisfying to be able to encourage and support young people coming into the industry.”

David added: “Our Green keepers have to be able to do everything, from building walls to repairing bridges – there is a lot more to the job than greens maintenance”. Josh King, 18, from Balloch, is a second year MA. “It’s a great opportunity to learn a range of skills on the job and I really enjoy it,” he said. “I didn’t enjoy sitting in a classroom at school but the apprenticeship is great because it’s hands-on.”  The Vale of Leven Golf Club has received financial assistance from West Dunbartonshire Council’s Youth Employment Grant.

"It makes good business sense to invest in training, such as Skills Development Scotland’s Modern Apprenticeship (MA) programme."