Undertaking our Principles course proved to be a career-defining decision for Claire Docker.
Robin Hood Golf Club General Manager Claire Docker says the Principles of Golf Club Management course had a transformative impact on her career.
Claire started in the industry as an Office Assistant in 2021, soon rising to Assistant Manager. It was in October 2023 that she undertook the Principles course, and by the following year she had assumed her current role as GM.
Having rapidly climbed the career ladder, Claire cited the significant influence of the Principles course in her professional development.
“I would highly recommend it — this course changed the course of my career and changed my life,” she said. “The course provides invaluable insights, practical tools, and a strong foundation in golf club management.
“It’s an excellent investment in your career and will give you the confidence and knowledge to excel in the industry. I’ve never looked back.”
Asked why the course appealed to her in the first place, she said: “I was new to the golf industry and I wanted to enhance my knowledge and skills in golf club management.
“The GCMA provided the perfect foundation. It offered a structured and comprehensive approach to understanding the key aspects of the industry, helping me develop both professionally and personally.”
The week-long course provided Claire with a wealth of knowledge, and she was impressed by the expertise and insights gleaned from the guest speakers, but one thing that struck her was the benefit of spending time with peers.
“The course content was excellent — well-structured, informative, and highly relevant to the challenges faced in golf club management,” she said.
“The value it provided was outstanding, equipping me with practical insights and strategies that I could immediately implement in my role. The guest speakers were very experienced and I gained a huge amount of knowledge.
“The course deepened my understanding of financial management, membership engagement, and operational matters. There is nothing quite like being in a room of like-minded peers.”
About GCMA Principles of Golf Club Management course
The one-week Principles of Golf Club Management course will provide you with the knowledge and resources to understand the numerous areas of control that a Golf Club Manager requires.
It aims to inform you of crucial legislative processes, employment and Health & Safety principles, along with the many varied roles and responsibilities that the modern Golf Club Manager needs to have at their fingertips.
Run by the GCMA, this course has been running in excess of 30 years and is a recognised standard within the golf industry and by golf clubs and recruiters as essential education for new managers, heads of department and assistants seeking career progression or those from outside of the industry seeking a change in career path.
Claire has since gained Accredited Manager status as she continues to pursue her professional development, which is something she places huge stock in, making he grateful for the opportunities provided by our association.
“Professional development is a top priority for me and I have found that the key people at the GCMA are extremely helpful and supportive,” she added.
“The training and networking opportunities, making it a fantastic organisation for career progression.”
Principles course dates
Mon 10th – Thu 13th March 2025 (online)
Mon 9th – Thu 12th June 2025 (online)
Mon 29th September – Fri 3rd October (Residential)
