Sports students from Level 3 Sport and Exercise Science and Level 3 Sports Coaching have successfully implemented a Turing Scheme project, providing coaching and mentorship to children in Port Elizabeth, South Africa. The project was in partnership with the esteemed charity organization, United Through Sport, which focuses on improving the lives of children in underserved township areas by providing education and opportunities to develop their athletic and leadership skills. The students were able to deliver football, rugby, netball, hockey, tennis, and cricket coaching to six different primary schools. They also organized a tournament for the children, where they raised funds to provide trophies and lunches for the participants. Additionally, the students provided Maths and English classes in the classrooms, which further honed their leadership skills. This initiative showcases the immense potential of youth-led programs to make a significant impact on society and promote positive change.

Jonny Hunt, Course Leader, and Mobility Lead said:

After the last South Africa residential in 2020, we have been unable to return due to the pandemic. Therefore, this felt like an extra special opportunity to be able to provide our learners with this brilliant opportunity, and to continue our partnership working with United Through Sport. The mobility was a huge success where our learners have come back humbled, appreciating what they have in the UK after spending two weeks in the townships. It is also great to see that our donated sports kits are being given out by the charity to the children that need it the most, continuing the positive impact we had even after we have returned to the UK.

Ryan Hibbert, Sports Coaching student said:

The confidence that I got from South Africa regarding employment and in the workplace was unbelievable. Coaching in a completely different environment to England was a real confidence boost as it meant crossing the language barrier and delivering sessions in difficult places. The experience has given me belief in my coaching skills moving forward and looking at further opportunities within England to progress with my coaching.

Tyler Jenkins, Sport, and Exercise Science student said:

The mobility was once in a lifetime experience that allowed me to learn so much and enjoy a new culture and create so many lasting memories. The children in the schools were filled with so much joy and that made us as coaches want to deliver fun and engaging sessions to give them the best experience possible. All the staff from United Through Sport were welcoming and friendly and made volunteering a real pleasure. Additionally, the cultural activities we did were amazing from Addo elephant park to Gumboot dancing. This opportunity was a rewarding experience that I will never forget, and I would go back in a heartbeat!

Katie Garratt, Sports Coaching student said:

South Africa was an extremely eye-opening experience, from the township tour to coaching the children. The way that they have a completely different way of life, yet they are so grateful and appreciative for everything. When we went on the township tour to see what conditions they are living in and how little they have yet they are all positive and there is such a community feeling and this is something massive that I took away from the trip to just appreciate everything we have in life and to be grateful for all of the opportunity’s life gives us.

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