The Grounds Management Association’s (GMA) NextGen group bowled over students at Lord’s Cricket Ground on Friday 27 June, as the Schools Into Stadia initiative delivered its first ever cricket-focused edition.

Local school students were offered a rare behind the scenes look at one of the world’s most iconic sporting venues, whilst getting a hands-on introduction to the world of grounds management – a profession that plays a vital yet often overlooked role in sport.

The students got stuck in with practical activities led by the Lord’s grounds team, learning how to prepare a pitch and apply turf care techniques used at the highest level of the game.

They also had the unique opportunity to hear from industry professionals about their career journeys, gaining real insight into the skills and science that make sport possible.

Jack Langley, GMA NextGen Co-Chair, said: “Giving people an opportunity to come into professional venues in the first place is key. It’s great to show off what we’re doing and show the students that this career is a great opportunity.

“It’s second to none being outside, working outdoors, meeting people, learning science of the grass.”

The Schools Into Stadia initiative, supported by GMA NextGen sponsor Reesink UK, has now reached students at top-tier venues including Wimbledon’s All England Club, Anfield Stadium, Goodison Park and Ashton Gate.

Meg Lay, GMA NextGen Co-Chair and Groundsperson at Lord’s, said: “If you want to be out in the middle of an iconic venue like Lord’s or the Emirates, Anfield, Wembley, wherever it may be, there’s only a few ways you can do that – one of those is playing, you might be a coach, or you’re cutting the grass.

“We’re bumping shoulders with some of the biggest athletes in the world every day and it’s one of the only ways you can do it.”

With under 35 representation now on the rise in grounds management, initiatives like this are helping to future-proof the industry, making sure young people know that careers in grounds management are not only possible, but exciting and vital to sport at every level.

Gillian Haverson, Marketing & Communications Manager at Reesink UK, said:“The fact the students have been able to walk out onto the playing surface and see the place where in two weeks’ time, England will play a test match, is incredible. They’ve been able to do the pitch tests themselves, and I think that practical element is crucial for young people because they really get something out of that. It gets them thinking what the role of a groundsperson actually entails so it’s been very valuable.”

To find out more about the GMA NextGen group, visit thegma.org.uk/nextgen.