The Field of Sport Conference

On 19 June more than 120 pupils from ten local schools spent the day at the University of Brighton’s Falmer campus to attend The Field of Sport Conference.

The conference was designed to introduce pupils to the University of Brighton and its degrees that will set them on the path to a career in sport.

Following a conference welcome by principal lecturer Fiona Smith, the pupils listened to a keynote speech from Kevin Betts who discussed the steps important for achieving success, the relevance of setting goals, but also the importance of asking for help either to succeed or when things are not going quite as well as you want them to.

Nicknamed The Marathon Man, Kevin is a runner, personal trainer and mental health campaigner with a passion for goal setting and pushing himself and others beyond their expectations. In 2011, Kevin ran 52 sub four-hour marathons, including one on his wedding day, and the following year led a group who ran from the Arc De Triomphe to Marble Arch in just four days.

Kevin said: “It was a great opportunity to encourage young people to really think about what they want to do with their futures and also let them know it’s ok to fail, as it’s part of the learning process.”

The interactive conference also included a series of hands-on activities where the pupils were able to explore sport and exercise science, physical education, sport coaching, problem solving, team building and sport journalism.

The day rounded up with a series of short presentations about the different degree options available. Della Lawson, a final year PE student, also explained the process she went though to undertake a degree and talked about student life in general.

The conference was well received by the students and teachers:

“The day was a blast, we had lots of fun and found it very interesting.”

“Really informative, we got to experience lots of new things like visiting lecture theatres, prepares you well for knowing what it’s like at uni.”

“The students really enjoyed the sessions and it got them thinking about career possibilities and setting goals.”

“Excellent. The students were fully engaged and really enjoyed the activities. There has been lots of talk about wanting to go to University and they now have lots of avenues to explore.” 

“We had a lovely day, it was good to meet students and teachers from other schools. Your facilities are modern, light and airy, and very clean!”