Bernhard Academy launches pioneering golf course management workshop with GCMA in Leeds
The Bernhard Academy has embarked on an ambitious collaboration with the Golf Club Managers’ Association (GCMA) to introduce its inaugural Golf Course Management for Golf Club Managers workshop. Nestled in the scenic surroundings of the Bernhard Academy facility at Moortown Golf Club in Leeds, this three-day initiative aims to fortify the skill set of club managers and enhance their operational efficiency.
With eight dedicated participants, the workshop represents a vital segment of the GCMA’s Advanced Management Programme, designed to equip managers with essential tools for driving club success through improved operational understanding. The course seeks to bridge the knowledge divide often found between club managers and course managers, fostering a cooperative environment necessary for effective club management.
Phil Helmn, the Programme Leader for Agronomy, Leadership, and Management at the Bernhard Academy, spearheaded the sessions with a wealth of experience. Helmn articulated the importance of golf course managers fully grasping both technical and strategic responsibilities, which are crucial for synchronising efforts with a club’s leadership team. “Effective partnerships are key to achieving remarkable success,” he noted, emphasising the foundational role of collaboration in sustaining club performance.
The workshop provided not only theoretical insights but also facilitated practical engagement. Participants were exposed to various facets of course management, including budgeting, finance, and sustainable practices—all integral to modern golfing operations. The combination of classroom instruction and hands-on experiences resonates well with industry standards, reinforcing the commitment to best practices.
The concluding days of the workshop featured a panel of contributors—including Dr. Marie Athorn from the RSPB, Jimmy Sandison from Rain Bird, and representatives from BIGGA, Jim Croxton and Scott Reeves—who shared invaluable insights on sustainability and effective relationship management within the sector. Their participation underscored a community-focused approach, vital for fostering ongoing dialogues between organisations and enhancing the shared goals within the golfing industry.
The GCMA's Advanced Management Programme provides a comprehensive suite of certificates intended to enrich the knowledge base of golf club professionals. In addition to the Golf Course Management for Golf Club Managers certificate, the programme encompasses a range of topics such as environmental sustainability, relationship management, and capital planning, reflecting the diverse challenges faced by modern golf clubs.
Feedback from participants has been overwhelmingly positive; the course received a remarkable 98% satisfaction rating, as highlighted by Paul Hubner, General Manager at Strathaven Golf Club, who remarked on the course's impact as transformative for many attendees. This enthusiastic reception indicates a growing recognition within the industry of the need for tailored professional development opportunities.
As the Bernhard Academy continues to expand its educational offerings, it remains resolute in its mission to support the golf industry through high-quality training. The partnership with the GCMA highlights a collaborative spirit aimed at enhancing operational standards across the sector, a testament to the commitment required for long-term success in golf club management.
For those aspiring to elevate their professional capabilities, the GCMA's programme continues to be a beacon of excellence, guiding the future of golf club leadership towards sustainable and successful practices.