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Apprentice Groundsperson

Rugby Football Union · Twickenham · posted 29 July 2026

Wage
£23,000 a year
Hours
35 hours a week
Duration
2 Years
Level
Intermediate (Level 2)
Standard
Sports turf operative (level 2)
Starts
7 October 2026
Closing date
12 August 2026
Positions
1

Apply on the official government service →No Apprentice League account needed — we never gate applications.

  • Help prepare and maintain the Allianz Stadium pitch to elite standards for international rugby, Premiership fixtures and other major events
  • Work alongside the Grounds team and pitch contractors to support matchday and event preparations, including pitch reinstatement and site logistics
  • Learn to safely operate specialist grounds machinery, including mowers, tractors, buggies, line markers and fertiliser spreaders
  • Support wider stadium grounds maintenance, including artificial surrounds, green areas, trees, hedges, car parks and other site areas
  • Complete apprenticeship learning activities, including keeping a training log and working towards a Level 2 Sports Turf Operative certificate

Your training

Apprentices will achieve the Level 2 Sports Turf Operative Apprenticeship qualification and will then be eligible to join the IOG Register of Turf Management Professionals.

Delivery is work-based using blended learning technologies on the employer’s premises. There is an expectation that 20% of the working week will be off the job training, which is a legal requirement.

Where it leads

On completion of the apprenticeship and Level 2 Sports Turf Operative certificate, the apprentice will have gained practical experience in elite sports turf management, pitch preparation, grounds machinery and event support at a world-class venue. This could support progression into roles such as Assistant Groundsperson, Groundsperson, Sports Turf Operative or Grounds Maintenance Technician, with longer-term opportunities to develop towards Deputy Grounds Manager, Grounds Manager or specialist sports turf roles across stadiums, training grounds, clubs or wider sports venues.

About Rugby Football Union

The Rugby Football Union (RFU) is the national governing body for rugby union in England, responsible for growing and supporting the game from grassroots clubs through to the national teams, including England Men and the Red Roses. Our Purpose is simple: Enrich lives and grow the sport for future generations. It's to represent something bigger than ourselves - the game, each other, and the communities we're part of. Through rugby, we aim to inspire pride, create belonging, and ensure the sport continues to thrive for everyone, on and off the pitch.

Things to consider

You will be expected to work outdoors in all weather conditions.

To ensure your application has the best chance of being considered for the vacancy you must provide information on all qualifications undertaken stating highest grades achieved in every subject, paying particular attention to maths and English. Along with this you need to state any previous work experience.

Skills they're looking for

Attention to detailProblem solving skillsTeam workingInitiativePhysical fitnessTime managementPassion for learningCollaboration skills

Entry requirements

  • GCSE 2 other subjects (grade 2-9/E-A*) — essential
  • GCSE English (grade 2-9/E-A*) — essential
  • GCSE Maths (grade 2-9/E-A*) — essential

Where you'll work

  • 200 Whitton Road, Twickenham, TW2 7BA

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