The Yorkshire Golf College is set to open in September 2026 – offering students aged 16-18 the opportunity to study for college qualifications while progressing their golf ambitions over a two-year programme at Waterton Park and Wakefield College.
The programme is being led by PGA professionals Phil Akers and Scott McGovern, and delivered with Wakefield College. The team also includes PGA professionals Henry Taylor and Rochelle Morris, mental performance coach Laura Scott, and performance coach and 2020protour co-founder Chris Hanson.
It will combine studying for the BTEC National Extended Diploma in Sport and Exercise Science – a two-year, full-time programme equivalent to three A Levels – with golf coaching and competitive playing opportunities.
“Our aim is to provide a gateway for young players to move into a career in golf – whether that’s pursuing a playing career, joining The PGA, or securing university scholarships in the US,” said Phil. “The programme is built to help young players grow in the game while laying a strong academic and professional foundation.”
As well as studying at college, players will work with PGA professional coaches, a strength and conditioning coach, and a sports psychologist. They will also work in the college’s gym and practice at Waterton Park using TrackMan technology on the driving range and in the indoor studio – while also practising and competing on the course.
The Yorkshire Golf College has partnered with the 2020protour to create a dedicated Yorkshire Golf College Order of Merit as part of the circuit, and players will also compete in Association of Colleges competitions. For those looking to progress to university in the US, the programme has partnered with US Bound, which helps student athletes pursue university golf opportunities.
The Yorkshire Golf College is hosting open days on Sunday November 23 and Sunday January 25, 2026 at Waterton Park. For more information on the programme and to sign up for an open day, visit www.yorkshiregolfcollege.com
