A STUDENT is ‘proud’ to have bagged his dream job as assistant groundsman at Oakwell Stadium.

Kieran Morley, a level two horticulture apprentice at Barnsley College, has been on hand through the harsh weather to make sure Barnsley FC’s home turf is looking its best.

The club has been commended by opposition and match officials for its playing surface and makes sure to invest in equipment and staff.

Kieran said: “I’m quite proud to be honest that I managed to get permanent position here as before I had this job I was a little lost and didn’t know what I wanted to do for a career.

“I can’t really see myself doing anything else now.

“Every day is different. Some days I will be placing frost sheets and working on any divots on the pitches, whilst some days it will be eight hours of cutting pitches.

“The apprenticeship is useful in a few ways.

“It’s obviously good being at work and learning hands on but the apprenticeship helps you learn the theory side of the job which is just as important as learning the practical side.

“I like that there are other groundsmen from other football clubs in my class and people from other settings too so we can all compare experiences and liaise which further helps our learning.”