Weymouth College, which is one of only five further education providers in the UK ranked Outstanding for Sport, has today been recognised for their exceptional contribution to leadership development and volunteer deployment in their community. Sports Leaders UK awarded their good practice by granting them Leadership Academy status and marked the occasion with the presentation of a plaque to staff and students. It is the first provider in Dorset to receive the award.
Sports Leaders UK is a charity that changes lives by equipping people with the skills and motivation to create and run sporting activities in the community. The leadership skills also prepare learners for further education or employment. Weymouth College was commended for developing a range of creative initiatives which go beyond the required learning outcomes of Sports Leaders UK awards and qualifications.
Linda Plowright, Chief Executive, Sports Leaders UK said: “Leadership Academy status is only awarded to the centres that stand out as beacons of best practice. They offer clear education pathways and their qualifications and awards are open to all, including those with learning or physical difficulties. It makes education and acquiring leadership skills accessible to everyone in their community.”
Learners from Leadership Academies generally undertake additional voluntary hours to the minimum required for successful completion of their awards and qualifications, which are of direct benefit to their school or community.
Ben Heath, Sports Development Manager at Weymouth College, said: “We have established very good networks with organisations in our community, and are able to offer opportunities to our learners where they can gain practical skills to complement their knowledge. It provides a great foundation for further education or employment.”
Sports Coaching and Fitness student at the College, Becky Dike, aged 23, believes the leadership development elements of her course will make a difference in the workplace, and said: “The experience has helped develop my confidence in leading large groups for exercise, which will be of real benefit when looking for future employment opportunities.”
For more information about leadership awards and qualifications in your area, please visit www.sportsleaders.org and www.weymouth.ac.uk.
Dan Brember
