Throughout the academic year, learners from League Football Education’s Club Community Organisation programmes have participated in university taster days across the country. These bespoke days are aimed to support learners’ transition from further education to higher education, providing them with valuable insights into what it would be like to study sports based courses at various universities.
The University of Cumbria hosted students from Fleetwood Town and Carlisle United. At Nottingham Trent University, learners from Mansfield Town, Nottingham Forest, Northampton Town, and Derby County got a glimpse of university life, meanwhile Bradford City learners attended Leeds Beckett University. These visits are part of LFE’s ongoing effort to provide young people with opportunities to explore their transition options after completing the programme.
During the taster days, students not only toured the campuses and attended informational sessions, but also engaged in a variety of practical activities related to sports science and physical education. They participated in VO2 max testing, performance analysis, speed tests, and explored the biomechanics of how the body works. These hands-on activities allowed the learners to experience the practical aspects of the sports courses on offer and understand the scientific principles underlying athletic performance.
Laura Wentmoor, LFE’s Regional Officer and Transition Lead, emphasised the importance of these taster days. “Our goal is to ensure that learners are well-prepared for their next steps, and university is just one of their many options to take. These visits provide them with a clear picture of what to expect and help them make informed decisions about their futures.”
