Students try out life as a grounds professional at the All England Club

School students got a hands-on experience of life as a grounds professional at one of the world’s most renowned sporting venues yesterday.

As part of Grounds Week 2025, the Grounds Management Association (GMA) hosted a Schools Into Stadia event at the All England Club.

Students from schools in the area met members of the club’s experienced grounds team, including senior groundsman Will Brierley, as they got stuck into practical sessions and learnt about the work that goes into maintaining elite sports surfaces.

Fiona Harb, Head of Year 12 at Southfields Academy, in Merton Road, Southfields, said: “Educationally it was really good for our students. 

“For the students at our school, most of them have never been anywhere like this so it’s a real eye opener for them. It’s an industry that makes our students realise what goes on behind the scenes at these sporting venues.”

The event aimed to engage and encourage young people to consider careers in grounds management.

Neil Stubley, head of courts and horticulture at The All England Lawn Tennis Club, and GMA Board Member, said: “Schools Into Stadia provided a fantastic opportunity to spark the interest of the next generation of Grounds Managers. 

“The technical skills required in this industry are often overlooked, so teaching local students about the year-round maintenance of our grass courts was a great way to showcase the pivotal work that goes on behind the scenes to host The Championships, and most of all, inspire future careers in the profession.”

For more information visit thegma.org.uk/groundsweek.

Pictured top: Students met members of the club’s experienced grounds team as they got stuck into practical sessions (Picture: The All England Lawn Tennis Club)