The GroundsFest Academy continued its mission to upskill the industry with another free educational day, held on 31 July at Lantra House, Stoneleigh Park, Warwickshire. With a strong focus on robotics and sustainable technology, the CPD-accredited event brought together the GroundsFest Academy, Husqvarna, Origin Amenity, and Lantra to highlight how innovation is transforming the way outdoor spaces are managed.
Attendees – ranging from contractors and council staff to colleges, airport grounds teams and greenkeepers – were treated to a hands-on, interactive experience. Robotic mowers, battery-powered tools, and automated line-marking systems were put through their paces on a purpose-prepared green space, while expert-led talks explored current trends, training opportunities, and the broader impact of green technology.
“This was our second free educational day – and it’s incredible to see how far things have moved on in terms of robotics and green technology – even in a short space of time,” said Bradley Tennant, Director of Education for the GroundsFest Academy.
The day covered key topics including the benefits of robotic mowing systems, the rise of battery-powered machinery, and how these technologies can support sustainability targets. Practical sessions, combined with product demos, gave visitors a chance to see the equipment in a realistic setting.
Simon Hughes, Line Marking Sales Manager for Origin Amenity Solutions, said the event was an ideal platform to share fast-evolving tech:
“We felt it was important to get involved and to get in front of people – the right people. When it comes to technology – the systems, the software, there’s a lot that can assist you and free up labour to do other tasks while robotics handle routine work. Every year we are developing. Everything’s changing and we must get that across to customers. So, it’s good to get out there and stay ahead of the field.”
For many, it was also a valuable opportunity to ask meaningful questions and see how the machines could work in their day-to-day roles.
Adam Little, Key Account Manager for Husqvarna, said:
“There was an abundance of questions from the delegates – which shows how good the event was and how engaged the group was. Demonstrating the machines on green space marked out like a football pitch gives people a feel for how they’d actually use them. If you asked anyone who came, they’d say it was a very informative day.”
As well as showcasing technology, the day also included career guidance and training insights from Lantra – something that resonated with attendees of all ages and experience levels.
David Fisher, Lantra’s Head of Industry Partnerships, said:
“Whether you’re new to the industry or have been in it for years, there’s always more to learn. We’ve been pleased to host today’s event and share updates on our training and qualifications. It’s been great to be involved – and we look forward to more opportunities like this in future.”
That educational focus was echoed by Victoria Fiander, Assessor in Horticulture & Sports Turf at Wiltshire College:
“It’s really good to come here and keep your CPD going. These events are so important for bringing new talent into our industry – showing the younger generation what technology is out there. It’s not just about cutting grass. Events like this are great to showcase what we do in our industry. It’s really important to stay up to date with emerging technology to help us with climate change and sustainability.”
For many attendees, the event proved a turning point in how they view robotics and battery-powered solutions.
Nick Williams, Estates & Grounds Maintenance Team Leader at Aspire Housing, said:
“We went to a demo three or four years ago and the range just wasn’t there. But it’s come on in leaps and bounds. Now it feels like a real option for us. This is event has been fantastic because it’s not just sitting in a classroom – you’re outside, seeing it in action. I’m going to go back and tell the team all about it. Hopefully we’ll invest in some battery-powered kit.”
Others were keen to take what they’d learned and implement change.
Des Porter, Parks Team Leader at South Oxfordshire & Vale of White Horse District Councils, said:
“Our grounds team is still quite old school – petrol and diesel – but our goal is to be fully electric by 2030. I’ve got some great information today and I’ll be going back with proposals for making that switch.”
With momentum building and the appetite for education clear, the GroundsFest Academy plans to continue offering free, accessible training to help the industry stay at the forefront of innovation.
“Everyone benefits when knowledge is shared in the right environment,” added Bradley Tennant. “We’re excited to keep pushing forward with more events like this – and to help people at all levels get ready for the future. Everyone walked away with a smile on their face – and for me, it’s exactly how I’d want to be trained. That’s what makes this format so successful.”
Watch the video highlights of the day here – https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4_4A8bdbfaY
For more information, please visit www.groundsfestacademy.com
