Sports students relish life-changing overseas coaching trip

Life-changing placement opportunity

Nine Sports students from Leeds City College have returned from a life-changing coaching placement in Port Elizabeth, South Africa – and they’ve come back transformed.

In partnership with Gap Africa Projects and United Through Sports, the Level 3 learners delivered inclusive, high-energy coaching sessions to young people across local schools. From football to netball, the students got stuck in – often using minimal equipment – and left a lasting impact during their 15 day trip.

For many of those taking part the experience, made possible thanks to funding from the Turing Scheme, was transformative.

Student Ross Cameron shared how the trip had influenced his future goals. He said: “Participating in this project with Gap Africa has inspired me to pursue a career in coaching, whether that be for children or adults. Either way, I want to coach those who need help the most.”

Creativity and adaptability on display

Each day brought new challenges and opportunities for learning, with students taking the lead in planning and delivering sessions. Emily Cassidy, a staff member who accompanied the group, praised their adaptability and creativity.

She said: “Leeds City College students led a netball session which was creative and inclusive for all. Our students did this with minimal equipment and ensured it was engaging, focusing on skill building, teamwork and fun.

“They adapted their coaching to suit the large number of participants and range of ability levels.”

Building connections and confidence

Beyond the physical coaching, students worked to build connections with the children and make a lasting impression.

Student Thomas Armitage said: “I enjoyed going around the different schools and meeting all the children. I tried my best to make an impact on their lives despite only being there for a short amount of time. My main strength was trying to think of fun drills that would improve the children’s abilities.”

The placement didn’t just strengthen the students’ coaching ability – it helped them grow personally and professionally. Ruby Oxtoby noted a boost in her skills and self-belief.

She said: “My communication skills have gotten better and my confidence in coaching has grown because of this placement. The staff involved pushed me to do the best I could. After college, I will probably still go to university but after that I may look into doing something similar so I can relive this experience.”

A bright future ahead

Through self-assessment, the students identified leadership, communication, and creative thinking as the top skills they developed during the trip – qualities that will serve them well in both their academic and professional journeys.