Apprenticeship training in sports turf proves a winner for Artigarvan's Abi

IN today’s competitive job market, practical skills and real-world experience are more valuable than ever.

At the College of Agriculture, Food and Rural Enterprise (CAFRE), apprenticeships in horticulture offer a blend of practical learning and expert guidance, helping individuals turn their passion for outdoor spaces into a rewarding profession.

CAFRE’s Greenmount Campus offers Level 2 and Level 3 courses and enables apprentices to specialise in sports turf, landscaping, or parks, gardens and green spaces, opening doors to exciting careers in a growing industry.

Abi Pollock, from Artigarvan, didn’t follow a traditional female career route.

She originally trained as a bricklayer.

However, when Abi found herself out of work, she took the chance to pursue her passion for cricket and explore a new career in groundskeeping.

“I decided to try groundskeeping, not realising at the time that it would become a career I truly love,” Abi explains.

Her journey began at Bready Cricket Club, where she gained invaluable experience preparing and maintaining pitches.

With the support of mentors Abi developed the skills and confidence to take her career to the next level.

In September 2025, Abi joined the North West Cricket Union, where she now works across multiple grounds, ensuring facilities meet the highest standards.

Her achievements to date speak volumes.

In 2025, Abi was presented with the Presidents’ Spotlight Award at the Irish Cricket Awards for her contribution as the only female groundswoman in cricket across Donegal and Northern Ireland.

Reflecting on the award Abi stated: “The award means a great deal to me, as it reflects not only my hard work, but also the journey I’ve taken to break into and succeed in a male-dominated field.”

Looking ahead, Abi’s ambition is to manage her own team of groundskeepers and inspire more young people, especially women, to enter the industry.

Her determination to keep learning and improving her skills has set high targets, including the desire to work at a future women’s interprovincial cricket match.

CAFRE apprenticeships offer more than just qualifications, they provide real-world training, industry connections, and the confidence to succeed.

A spokesperson said: "Apprentices earn while they learn, gaining practical skills on the job while studying part-time at Greenmount Campus.

"Our tutors guide apprentices every step of the way, ensuring the skills learned open doors to exciting opportunities.

For anyone passionate about horticulture or sports turf management, CAFRE offers a route to a fulfilling career.

Whether you’re starting out or looking for a fresh start like Abi, visit: www.cafre.ac.uk to discover more about our horticulture courses.

Book to attend the next Open Day for horticulture on Wednesday, March 11, at Greenmount Campus, Antrim.