ICL Scholarship opens door to Continue to Learn

Applications are open for the ICL Continue to Learn Scholarship, giving five BIGGA members the chance to access the world-class education offering at BTME 2027.

Delivered in partnership with BIGGA Premium Partner ICL Turf & Landscape, the scholarship supports greenkeepers who are committed to their professional development but may otherwise find the cost of education, travel and accommodation a barrier. Each year, the successful scholars are invited to attend Continue to Learn in Harrogate, gaining access to a multi-day education programme alongside valuable networking opportunities with greenkeepers, turf professionals and other industry representatives from across the sector. The scholarship is designed to provide a level playing field for ambitious BIGGA members who want to broaden their knowledge, build confidence and bring new ideas back to their clubs.

Ethan Walker, a greenkeeper at Enville, was among the latest cohort and highlighted the breadth of opportunities on offer. “I had a fantastic time at BTME 2026,” he said. “Arriving on the Sunday meant I could get stuck in straight away with a full Continue to Learn programme thanks to the ICL Scholarship. I was exposed to a number of outstanding education opportunities. Alongside the education, I was also able to do a lot of networking with people from across the industry and the trade, helping me build relationships I hope to strengthen over the coming years.”

Fellow scholar Ryan Gall, senior greenkeeper at Loch Lomond, also praised the experience. “It was a highly rewarding experience,” he said. “I would thoroughly recommend applying for the ICL Scholarship to anyone who is looking to take the next steps in their career.”

Following a selection process, the ICL Continue to Learn Scholarship provides the five candidates with three nights in a hotel and a comprehensive education package worth approximately £500.

To earn an ICL Continue to Learn Scholarship, BIGGA members must demonstrate a commitment to developing their own professional abilities by engaging with BIGGA’s Continuing Professional Development scheme. Whether through in-person learning, reading this magazine or by accessing resources on the association’s website, BIGGA members have access to thousands of learning opportunities which are all aimed at helping improve their professional abilities and developing in their career.