Golf Activator FAQs
Who can become a Golf Activator?
If you are a motivated individual who is friendly, personable, orgainised and passionate about getting more people to play golf, then you can be a success in this role. You do not need any coaching skills to become a Golf Activator.
Anybody who assists a PGA Member within coaching sessions can undertake the Golf Activator online training – this service is provided as a free benefit for individuals who are part of the Business Management Group or Club Volunteer by PGA Groups. The role is defined as:
A Golf Activator is someone who has undertaken an online orientation to introduce them to the purpose of coaching and which provides them with some guidance on how best to assist with the delivery of coaching sessions. When helping out in these sessions the Golf Activator will at all times work with, and under the supervision of, a PGA Member.
Why should I become a Golf Activator?
Becoming a licensed Golf Activator means you have received training and support and can better assist your PGA Member. Once you have completed safeguarding and disclosure checks and the online training course, you will receive a Golf Activator License issued by The PGA. This licence provides you with insurance cover related to deployment with your supporting PGA Member.
What is the role of a Golf Activator?
To support your PGA Member in the delivery of coaching activity. Typically, this would mean helping out at things like: junior group lessons, a club junior section and adult beginner coaching sessions.
Within coaching sessions, activities would include but not be limited to:
- Setting up activities;
- Registering participants;
- Supervising non-technical activities as part of a programme plan set out by the PGA Member;
- Packing up after sessions;
- Social media posts/follow on communication.
Duties will depend on the requirements of the PGA Member and therefore it is anticipated that they will vary.
It should be noted that this course is not a coaching qualification and no training is given in this field. As such Golf Activators are not permitted to deliver any form of coaching or technical instruction. Your PGA Member should be the person who delivers all technical instruction and coaching.
What is the training and how is it delivered?
The Golf Activator training is undertaken online. This means you can access the course at a suitable time and at your own pace. It is anticipated that the online course will take you around two hours to complete. Once you have completed your expression of interest in the course and submitted your safeguarding certificate and disclosure check, you will have up to six months to complete the course.
How much does it cost to become a Golf Activator?
As you already a part of the Business Management Group or Club Volunteer by PGA, there is no cost or payment due for the online training and your first year Golf Activator Licence.
However, you must complete safeguarding and disclosure checks prior to taking the Golf Activator course. The cost of the safeguarding check varies across GB&I and must be paid for by you, with The PGA undertaking and covering the cost of the disclosure check.
Why does a PGA Member need to sponsor my application?
The Golf Activator must always work with, and for, a PGA Member. In order that the Golf Activator is supported through the training programme and beyond, applicants must have identified and attached themselves to a PGA Member before they begin the course and work with them following their training.
What can I do once I have passed the course?
Once you have successfully passed the online course, and completed the licensing process, you will be able to assist your nominated PGA Member, safe in the knowledge that you are insured to carry out your role.
If I pass the course, am I a qualified coach?
No. This course is designed to help you in assisting a PGA Member as an ’extra pair of hands’ - this is not a coaching qualification.
Can I be paid as a Golf Activator?
In most cases, it is thought that this role will be on a voluntary basis. However, you are able to receive payment from your PGA Member if this is agreed between parties. Payment is permitted, as undertaking the role of Golf Activator is not a coaching role and therefore does not infringe the Rules of Amateur Status related to Instruction as defined by the R&A and USGA.
If I become a Golf Activator will I lose my amateur status?
No, the Golf Activator does not deliver any direct coaching or golf instruction. This role therefore does not contravene the Rule of Amateur Status related to Instruction.
What is a Golf Activator Licence?
Once you have completed the Golf Activator online course, you will be eligible to apply for a ‘Golf Activator Licence’, issued by The PGA. This licence will demonstrate that you have completed a disclosure check and have undertaken safeguarding training. This licence will run for one year, at which point we will contact you with an option to renew the licence. Having a valid licence means that you are also protected by insurance, specifically for your deployment in coaching sessions. This liability cover is provided by The PGA.
