PGA Professional Iain Fulton at Belton Woods GC was exploring different junior golf coaching options when he came across the Golf Foundation’s Junior Golf Passport programme. He decided to register for the scheme as it “looked user friendly, easy to deliver and had modern resources backed up by a professional organisation dedicated to junior golf.” The decision paid off, with 16 children becoming a member of the club and another 10 expected to join.

To ensure that the Junior Golf Passport sessions at Belton Woods GC were well attended, Iain invited children from taster sessions in local schools and advertised on the club website. The Junior Golf Passport resources aided instruction by providing comprehensive lessons plans, with the flexibility for Iain to adapt delivery to individual needs. The basic structures of the passport e.g. swing rules, etiquette and games were readily employed. Whilst only half of those participating in the sessions registered on online, there were clear benefits for those that did, they were able to track their progress (so could their parents) and Iain could monitor their development.

The success of the junior section at Belton Woods GC can be attributed to the drive and determination of Iain Fulton. He has been instrumental in developing the junior section at the golf club, and employing the Junior Golf Passport programme has undoubtedly helped it grow. The passport additionally led to more parents volunteering to supervise club nights, golfing with their children and joining in at family events. With an enthusiastic group of older juniors also embracing the opportunity to help coach younger members, the future for young golfers at Belton Woods GC looks extremely bright.

Main achievements:
•  40 children take part in coaching each Saturday.
•  30 juniors are registered on the Junior Golf Passport scheme. 
•  16 children became a junior member at the golf club.
•  Older juniors eagerly supported younger players’ development.

Quote:
“The Junior Golf Passport gives pupils measureable progress, a complete golfing development and the confidence to go out and play which leads to all important membership and retention. To have a junior friendly structured programme to work to, and be able to work with a supportive team at the Golf Foundation, has increased the level of interest and credibility to the coaching.”   
Iain Fulton, PGA (AAT) Golf Professional, Belton Woods Hotel & Golf Resort