This year the Network to Education and Training (NET) students at Bridgwater College’s 14-16 Centre in Cannington have joined forces with the College’s YMCA Level 3 Personal Training students.

The collaboration aims to raise the confidence and self-esteem of the NET learners.  They are provided with a tailor-made fitness programme to meet their individual goals, including improving their strength and fitness, by utilising a range of gym based equipment and body weight exercises. Each individual student has been given access to cross-college facilities that they may not have had the confidence to use previously.

Dominic Hodges, Assistant Lecturer for the YMCA Level 3 Personal Training at Bridgwater College said,

“This is a great opportunity for both sets of students to learn from each other. The NET students in particular are given opportunities that they may not have had in the past, which serves as a great motivator for them. The Level 3 students have the chance to be strong role models for clients who haven’t had such characters in their lives.”

Personal Training student Josh Evans said,

“Working with the NET group is a great opportunity to train individuals who are inexperienced yet keen to learn. The students are very committed to the sessions, show interest in what we have to say and ask plenty of questions. This experience has helped me develop new knowledge and understanding within the gym environment and of working with different people.”

Bridgwater College’s NET Course Tutor, Jane Taylor added,

“Working alongside the personal trainers has increased the groups’ confidence and self-worth. Initially they were very nervous and put up barriers to attending, but with the encouragement of their personal trainers, have developed at their own speed and now look forward to the session each week. It’s a massive credit to the trainers that they look forward to coming each week and make sure they have the right clothing!”