Become a Friend of First Green and help inspire the next generation
BIGGA is inviting businesses across the turf and golf industries to support the future of greenkeeping by becoming Friends of First Green.
Friends of First Green is a new donation-led initiative created to support the continued delivery, growth and inclusivity of First Green across the UK.
First Green turns golf courses into outdoor classrooms, enabling greenkeeping teams to host school field trips that bring science, technology, engineering and maths (STEM) to life in a practical and memorable way. Through hands-on activity stations, young people can explore subjects such as soil science, ecology, water quality, machinery, problem-solving and the environmental value of golf courses. Just as importantly, they can discover career pathways they may never previously have considered.
With the programme delivered free of charge to schools, support from Friends of First Green will help BIGGA make these experiences accessible to more young people, schools and communities. Businesses are being invited to support the scheme through an annual donation, with a suggested contribution of £500.
Funds raised will help BIGGA:
- Reach more schools, communities and young people
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Provide educational materials and resources
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Fund school transport bursaries
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Support clubs and volunteers delivering First Green events
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Expand outreach, including careers and training events
The first business to become a Friend of First Green is Siems Turfgrass Ltd, led by Ken Siems.
Jenny Bledge, BIGGA Workforce Project Manager, said: “First Green is already showing how powerful these experiences can be. When young people step onto a golf course and see the science, technology and teamwork involved in greenkeeping, it changes their perception of what our profession offers.
"Initiatives like First Green are so important for the future of our industry. If we want to continue attracting the next generation into greenkeeping and golf course management, we need to give young people the opportunity to see the wide range of skills, technology and career pathways our industry offers. Reaching both primary and secondary school pupils helps us spark that interest early and continue building it as they grow.
"Support through Friends of First Green will play a huge role in helping us make these opportunities accessible to as many young people as possible, regardless of background. Donations and support will help us continue developing resources, supporting hosting facilities and removing barriers that may prevent schools and young people from taking part. We are incredibly grateful to Ken Siems and Siems Turfgrass Ltd for becoming our first Friend of First Green and supporting the future of the profession in such a positive and meaningful way."
Friends of First Green will be recognised equally through a listing on the Friends of First Green webpage, a digital 'I'm a Friend of First Green' badge and inclusion in BIGGA's annual acknowledgement list.
By becoming a Friend of First Green, businesses can make a direct contribution to the future of the profession, supporting environmental education, raising awareness of greenkeeping and helping more young people understand the opportunities available within golf.
To become a Friend of First Green, contact [email protected] or visit the Friends of First Green page.
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