National Apprentice Week 2025: Beth Gibbs

During National Apprenticeship Week 2025, we will be releasing brief Q&As with previous apprenticeship graduates. We start with Beth Gibbs from Wellington School. 

(Photo credit: Beth Gibbs, The GMA)

Beth joined the GMA’s Young Board of Directors in 2023, fresh off the back of successes in the GMA Industry Awards 2023 where she won Young Groundsperson of the Year.

Beth commented: “I joined the industry almost by accident. I love grounds care and now I work hard to ensure the next generation actively seek out the profession.”

“I entered the industry when I was looking for an apprenticeship,” Beth continues. “An opening came up at Wellington School for a trainee groundsperson. I applied, got the job and three years later haven’t looked back.”

Where and when did you do your apprenticeship in turfcare? 

I did my apprenticeship through Bridgwater and Taunton College. I started it in May 2021 and completed it in July 2023 with a grade of a merit.

How much did you learn during this time?

I learned all the basic knowledge and practical skills while learning it on the job.

⁠Did the apprenticeship help you shape your career in turfcare?

Yes, it did, it gave me all of the knowledge and skills I needed to succeed in my role as a groundsperson.

Would you recommend an apprenticeship in turfcare to others?

I would definitely recommend an apprenticeship as it’s a great way to learn all the skills and knowledge you need to succeed in the grounds industry, while gaining practical experience of being a groundsperson and gaining a qualification.

⁠Can you give us a brief summary of the role you are in now?

I am now a groundsperson at Wellington School, which is where I did my apprenticeship.