Sport Summer School 2017

The University of Brighton’s residential Sport Summer School took place from 22-26 August as part of the Compact Plus Programme.

Thirty Year 12 students from schools and colleges across the South-East took part in a packed programme of activities which included inspirational lectures, practical sessions such as physical education, sport coaching, cheerleading and in the sport science labs.

There were also outings to Beachy Head which included a mile and a half fun-run, some free time in Eastbourne town centre, and bowling and laser quest. Students were also given information about sport courses at the university, the UCAS application and personal statement writing process, careers and student finance.

The university Student Ambassadors worked hard all week to be on hand to answer questions about student life, courses, accommodation and their first-hand experience of student finance.

On the final day, three of the participating students were confident enough to volunteer to plan and run their own 30 minute sporting session with the group which included football, rugby and basketball. The students then had a final talk and graduation ceremony in the lecture theatre along with some closing speeches from Student Ambassadors and two of the students that attended.

Feedback from students included:

“I enjoyed how close the week was to feeling like a real week at uni.”

“ I have learnt a lot during my time here about QTS and various other pathways.  Talking to ambassadors is useful and my time here was enjoyed fully.”

“I have learnt all the different jobs and careers you can go into by doing sports degrees…”

“I’ve learnt what the university campus is like, I’ve tried something new (cheerleading).”

“Enjoyed the sport summer school more than I expected and wish we had a longer time or week.”

Fiona Smith, Principal Lecturer said: “The summer school provided a significant opportunity for the participants; they should now be in a good position to make more informed decisions about attending university.

“Students soon realised that moving from home and making friends might be easier than they anticipated. Also, that understanding how the various sport-related degree courses differ is an important part of making the right choice.

“Interacting with the ambassadors throughout the week gave them a genuine insight into the academic, sporting and social life of SASM students.“

Marina Trowell, Recruitment and Outreach Co-ordinator from the Widening Participation Team said: “Students get to experience what university is like by living in halls, meeting new people and attending lectures and practical sport sessions. Throughout the week, students gain a lot of helpful information and by speaking to staff and current university students.

“They gain confidence and see what university is really like. It’s a great week and a big thank you to everyone who was involved.”