A new initiative based in Bath is using golf to help young people develop confidence, resilience and positive life skills.
Grassroots Golf was launched last year by former Frome College teacher Jon Haines, who spent 15 years as Head of Geography and leading teacher development at the school. Wanting to continue working closely with young people while also developing his passion for golf coaching, he set up the project to make the sport more accessible to local families.
Jon explained that golf offers a unique environment for personal development.
“Golf naturally builds resilience, patience, integrity and emotional control,” he said. “It also gives young people time away from screens, outdoors, socialising and being mentored in a calm setting. It’s a brilliant way to support wellbeing.”
Grassroots Golf is a registered provider of the Golf Foundation’s Unleash Your Drive programme, which focuses on improving young people’s mental toughness through golf. As part of their sessions, which often take place in conjunction with local schools, young people learn strategies such as positive self-reflection, visualisation, emotional control and goal setting while also developing practical golfing skills.
Jon has already seen the difference it can make. One young person he worked with, Bella, struggled with focus in school due to ADHD and had rarely played golf before joining the programme. Using a visual concentration tool taught during sessions, she has developed techniques that now support her in lessons, in exams and when working at home. Her teachers have since commented on her improved focus and confidence.
Another pupil, Archie, often found his behaviour could get him into trouble at school. Golf has offered him a positive outlet, providing a calm environment where the act of hitting balls helps him release frustration. Through the programme he has built confidence and emotional control, with a noticeable impact on his behaviour and self-esteem in school.
Grassroots Golf works with young people aged 9–17 across BANES and Wiltshire, including those with SEND and SEMH needs, although the programme is open to all. The initiative offers one-to-one coaching, intervention groups and private lessons, and is an approved provider of Alternative Provision in Wiltshire, with registration in progress for B&NES.
Sessions take place in schools and at local golf clubs, including access to the facilities at Cumberwell Park near Bradford on Avon.
For more information or to enquire about sessions, visit www.grassrootsgolf.org.uk or email email hidden; JavaScript is required.
