IMPROVE YOUR GOLF

 
 

The PGA Academy exists to provide a pathway for individuals that wish to become a fully qualified PGA Professional.  

 

The PGA Trainee Program is ideal for both male and female golfers who have a passion for a career in golf.
PGA Trainees work alongside fully qualified PGA members and receive practical work experience and on-the-job training at approved golf facilities around the country.

APPLICATIONS FOR THE 2024 PROGRAMME ARE NOW CLOSED!

To apply for this year's intake please follow the steps below

Step 1: Download the 2024 Application Form HERE
Step 2: Complete the required sections on the Application Form
Step 3: Click HERE to upload the application form and complete the application process 

 

If you have any questions or need any assistance please contact:

Education@pga.org.nz
 

Let your Passion become your Career 

"My time spent as a Trainee Professional and the journey that I have been on through the PGA Academy has been a truly unique experience. Throughout the three years I spent in the programme     I've learnt more than I could have ever imagined, I've reached goals that seemed like dreams and met some of the most amazing and interesting people that I have ever had the pleasure to spend    time with and learn from. I feel privileged and honoured to have been able to take part and complete the traineeship and incredibly proud to call myself a full member of the PGA, the traineeship has given me the skills and qualification to launch my career in golf and I'm excited to see what the future has in store”.

Sam Abela PGA Member

 

For more information or if you are thinking about becoming a trainee contact education@pga.org.nz    

 

Course Structure  Studiesthe Trainee Program are a combination of on-the-job training, block release training schools, distance and on-line education.  

Coaching - knowledge and skills for golf coaching, leading to the highest level of coach accreditation in golf. 

Game Development - strategies and skills to actively grow participation and enjoyment of the sport of golf. 

Small Business - strategic and operational skills for successfully operating business in the golf industry. 

Management - skills and strategies relating to planning, organising and leading a golf club or golf organisation.

   

Two training schools are held during each year of training covering theoretical assignments and practical examinations to assess the progress of the trainee. Prior to graduation the Trainee is also required to gain areas of competence from these external bodies: Comprehensive Workplace First Aid Certificate - a two day course - delivered by Red Cross or St. Johns. Class A or B Rules Badge from the New Zealand Golf Association. Seminars and examinations are conducted by District Golf  Associations.

 

Job Outcomes Potential employment opportunities for graduates of the PGA Trainee Program include:   
Head Professional, Director of Golf,  Assistant Professional,  Golf Operations Manager/Assistant Teaching Professional,  Tournament Professional,  Development Officer,  Company Sales/Technical Representative,  Golf Club Manager.

 

Practical Playing Requirements

Professional tournament play is an integral component of the PGA Trainee Program. Throughout the program, Trainees are required to complete in a number of professional events to ensure they retain a professional playing standard.
There is a wide variety of playing opportunities for Trainees such as: Weekly trainee matches Domestic Pro-Am events Charles Tour Events PGA National Trainee events PGA Tour of Australasia events (subject to eligibility) m
A minimum of twenty (20) rounds per year is used to calculate an adjusted playing average and successful completion of the playing requirement is contingent on achieving the required average in each of three (3) separate playing periods.

 

Admission Requirements To be eligible for the 2024 PGA Trainee Program 

Applicants must: Be at least eighteen (18) years of age as at January 1 of the year they commence in the program Be a New Zealand citizen or permanent resident with the ability to work unrestricted for the duration of the program. Have attained a minimum of Year 12 or equivalent and provide certified copies of academic transcripts. If minimum Year 12 has not been attained an Aptitude Test will need to be sat at time of interview Have a handicap (exact) at the time of entry of three (3) or better for males and six (6) or better for females Attend an interview and aptitude assessment day with representatives of the Academy and provide evidence in support of their application.