How to become a member

The PGA Apprentice Programme
Introduction, Application Process, Guidelines and Rules

Introduction

Are you keen on becoming a Golf Professional (as opposed to a Professional Golfer)?
The PGA of South Africa runs an apprentice programme that is on a par with the best in the world and confers internationally accreditation status to its graduates.

If you wish to register please do not hesitate to contact the PGA head office on 011 485 1370.

Below is a summary of the process which you will undergo and criteria that will need to be fulfilled in order to qualify as a member of the PGA.

Registering with the PGA
To qualify to register with the PGA you must have

  • Attained the age of 18 years
  • Matric with a suitable qualification re literacy sciences and maths
  • A 5 handicap for men and an 8 handicap for ladies
  • Employed under a full PGA member in a green grass environment i.e. golf club or driving range.

The registration process
You need to:

  • Complete application forms
  • Submit an up to date C.V
  •  Undergo an interview with PGA manager (or regional representative) and be seen to be suitable.
  • You will be required (with your permission) to undergo a reference and criminal check.
  • Signed Roles & Responsibilities documentation from your PRO and yourself.

Note: it is not always the case that if an apprentice is employed by a full member he will necessarily pass the interview and be accepted by the PGA

Academic registration
The academic year is from 1st of April to the 30th of March
You can register for the following academic year from the 1st November to the 31st of March. The PGA training academy will be closed between Christmas and New Year.

Note: An apprentice can begin the time component of his apprenticeship from March to October and he will be entitled to the privileges of an apprentice member. However when entering tournaments he is last in the priority list that is ordered from the academic years 3rd to 2nd to 1st and then to the “pre-academic apprentice”.

Coaching
Before an apprentice is allowed to coach he must pass his Teaching Ability Test..

  • you must be familiar with the booklet on coaching
  • your pro must have spent time with you and be confident you can give a lesson
  • your pro must give you a letter saying you are capable of giving a lesson
  • a date will be arranged for an assessment with a PGA approved assessor (as detailed in the Apprentice Handbook)
  • The assessor will inform you of your competency.

The Training Process
The training of potential members has two main aspects. 'On-site' training is work done under the guidance and supervision of the employing professional. 'Academic' training refers to the courses organized for all trainees by the PGA Director of Training.

On-site training has been the backbone of training received by young professionals. Daily contact in a personal relationship with a professional often with many years’ experience provides an ideal atmosphere for learning. Specific assignments are given and members of the PGA's training body carefully monitor every aspect of these.
Every trainee is required to attend three 'academic' training courses over a three year period which deals with aspects such as:
  • Theory and Teaching the Golf Swing
  • Equipment Technology and Club repairs
  • Business Management
  • Rules of Golf and Tournament Administration
  • Sports Science

The programme presented is acquired from the PGA of Great Britain and Ireland and carries Foundation Degree status in the UK. The PGA of South Africa is a member of the PGA of Europe and the training programme carries their accreditation & endorsement.

Educational requirements to be fulfilled
During your 3 year apprenticeship you need to:

  • Attend an annual residential each year
  • An apprentice may only miss a residential for legitimate reasons such as a death of an immediate relative or an illness in which case a doctor’s certificate must be produced.
  • Submit  assignments by the relevant deadlines
  • Pass the exams each year

The Playing Ability test
Professionals are required to be able to play golf to a suitable standard. During the apprenticeship the apprentice is required to score 4 scores of 5 over par or better in PGA tournaments. You are also required to keep an updated playing log and maintain a handicap.

Fees and Payment Options:

The fees payable on acceptance would be
R 1425 joining fee
R 570 Teaching ability test fee (only applicable in first year)
R 315.00 subs
Total: R 2310.00
All the above is inclusive of vat.

1st and 2nd Year Academic fees at R 22 000 excl VAT
Option 1   Full Payment prior to 1 May 2012
  R 25 080 (5% discount)   R 23 826.00 
     
Option 2 40% payment prior to 1 May 2012. Remaining 60% over 3 months in 3 instalments  –  no interest
  R 25 080 – 40 % deposit  R 10 032.00
  3 x monthly instalments  R   5 016.00 (per instalment)
    R 25 080.00
     
Option 3 40% payment prior to 1 May 2012. Remaining 60% over 6 months in 6 instalments  –  12% interest/annum
  R 25 080 – 40 % deposit   R 10 032.00
  6 x monthly instalments   R   2 658.48 (per instalment)
    R 25 982.88
     
Option 4 50% payment prior to 1 May 2012. Remaining 60% over 9 months in 9 instalments  –  12% interest/annum
  R 25 080 – 50 % deposit   R 12 540.00
  9 x monthly instalments R   1 518.73 (per instalment)
    R 26 208.60
     
3rd Year fees at R 19 500 excl VAT
Option 1   Full Payment prior to 1 May 2012  
  R 22 230 (5% discount)  R 21 118.50   
     
Option 2  40% payment prior to 1 May 2012. Remaining 60% over 3 months in 3 instalments  –  no interest
  R 22 230 – 40 % deposit   R   8 892.00
  3 x monthly instalments   R   4 446.00 (per instalment)
    R 22 230.00
     
Option 3  40% payment prior to 1 May 2012. Remaining 60% over 6 months in 6 instalments  –  12% interest/annum
  R 22 230 – 40 % deposit   R   8 892.00
  6 x monthly instalments  R   2 356.38 (per instalment)
    R 23 030.28
     
Option 4    50% payment prior to 1 May 2012. Remaining 60% over 9 months in 9 instalments  –  12% interest/annum
  R 22 230 – 50 % deposit   R 11 115.00
  9 x monthly instalments R   1 346.15 (per instalment)
    R 23 230.35

Further details are obtainable from the PGA Head Office on (011) 485-1370 or email janine@pga.co.za


Academic Achievement Incentive’