The Grounds Management Association (GMA) has successfully retained the matrix Standard accreditation for the 12th consecutive year, reaffirming its commitment to providing high-quality information, advice, and guidance (IAG) to grounds management professionals across the UK.

The matrix Standard is the international quality standard for organisations that deliver information, advice, and guidance services. Owned by the Department for Education, the accreditation recognises organisations that effectively support individuals in making informed decisions about learning, development, and career progression.

The GMA remains the only industry association to hold the prestigious accreditation, underlining its position as the leading professional body for the grounds management sector.

First achieved in 2015, the accreditation is maintained through a three-year cycle comprising a full assessment followed by two annual continuous improvement reviews. This year’s assessment expanded its focus beyond the GMA’s learning provision to evaluate the wider organisation’s delivery of information, advice and guidance across its activities and services.

As part of the rigorous assessment process, the independent assessor gathered feedback from learners and end users of the GMA’s information, advice, and guidance services, alongside staff, Board representatives and National Governing Body partners.

The assessment highlighted the positive impact of the GMA’s support across the sector. Learners praised the ongoing guidance available to them, while the organisation’s robust approach to measuring learning outcomes was recognised as a key strength. One participant noted that, while grounds management can often be an isolating profession, the GMA helps individuals feel connected and included within a wider professional community.

The assessor also recognised the value of GMA Connect events in promoting inclusion and fostering professional networks across the industry.

Feedback from National Governing Bodies of Sport reinforced the GMA’s reputation as the sector’s trusted source of expertise, with one partner highlighting that there is “nowhere else to go for such expertise”.

The assessment also commended the organisation’s governance, recognising its strong strategic direction, clear alignment with organisational objectives and effective sector-wide leadership.

Across the organisation, staff were praised for their positivity, flexibility, and commitment to supporting those accessing GMA services. Their passion for helping individuals develop professionally was highlighted as a defining characteristic of the organisation.

Dan Prest, Training and Learning Manager at the GMA, said: “Retaining the matrix Standard accreditation for a twelfth consecutive year is a fantastic achievement and reflects the dedication of colleagues across the organisation to supporting grounds management professionals and volunteers throughout their careers.”

“This year’s assessment was particularly significant because it considered the wider information, advice and guidance offer delivered by the GMA. The feedback from learners, industry partners and stakeholders demonstrate the positive impact of our work and the value of creating opportunities for people to learn, connect and progress within the profession.”

Roger Chapman, Head of the matrix Service for The Growth Company said: “This is a fantastic achievement for the GMA, and I would like to congratulate the team on their success. We believe that at the heart of high-quality advice and support services are strong leadership, excellent service, and a focus on continuous improvement, all underpinned by effective use of the resources available.  The matrix Standard is designed to benchmark organisations against best practice in these areas. With their accreditation success, GMA working to provide the best possible support to their clients.”

Geoff Webb, Chief Executive Officer of the GMA, said: “As the only industry association to hold matrix Standard accreditation, this achievement highlights the important role the GMA plays in supporting the grounds management community.”

“From professional development and career guidance to industry networking and technical expertise, we are committed to helping individuals and organisations succeed. We are proud that our work continues to be recognised through this respected Department for Education-backed standard.”

The matrix Standard accreditation reflects the GMA’s ongoing commitment to supporting the professional development, wellbeing and career progression of grounds staff, volunteers, and industry professionals across all sectors of sport and amenity landscaping.