OSTC Sports Turf (Level 3)
Sport & Recreation
A course by
Otago Polytechnic
Gain practical, hands-on skills in sports turf management, including plant biology, maintenance of turf equipment, soils, fertilisers, and irrigation systems. Ideal for secondary school students interested in outdoor work related to sport and the environment.
In-person study
Face-to-face learning in a physical classroom setting
Cromwell, Cromwell
Core skills this course teaches
Understand plant biology relevant to sports turf
Gain knowledge of plant characteristics related to sports turf care and maintenance.
Use and maintain specialised turf equipment
Learn how to select, prepare, and maintain specialist turf mowing equipment and machinery.
Apply soils and fertiliser management
Develop skills in soil management, fertiliser selection, and nutrient testing for healthy sports turf.
What You're Signing Up For
OSTC Sports Turf (Level 3) is designed for secondary school students who enjoy outdoor environments and have an interest in sport. The course teaches the management and maintenance of various sports turfs, including golf courses, sports fields, and artificial turf. Students will gain experience working with plants, soils, turf machinery, irrigation, and health and safety processes, preparing them for careers in groundskeeping, landscaping, or nursery work.
Course Content
- Plant biology
- Maintenance of sports turf tools, equipment, and machinery
- Soils and fertilisers
- Irrigation systems
- Health and safety for equipment and chemicals
- Specialist mowing techniques
- Sports turf growth and soil nutrient testing
What you need to know first
You must be a secondary school student.
Application must be made through your school and careers advisor.
What sort of industry will this job lead to
Sport and Recreation
Groundskeeping
Turf Management
Landscaping
Future employment opportunities might be
Grounds person (golf courses, sports grounds, stadiums, schools, race tracks, council grounds)
Landscaper
Plant nursery worker
Otago Polytechnic is known for high quality, hands on learning that leads to strong outcomes. With excellent student satisfaction, high graduate employment rates, and a commitment to sustainability, it’s a place where practical skills meet purpose. Their award winning programmes span design, fashion, creative arts, trades, health, and business, giving you real experience and real confidence for whatever comes next.