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► Opportunities

THE SPORTS PARTICIPATION PROGRAMME
AN INTRODUCTION TO WHAT IS ON OFFER 

The University has developed a programme of fitness and sports instruction that is amongst the finest in the country. There are plenty of opportunities to learn new skills and to pick up fresh ideas in such diverse activities as yoga, tennis, hill walking, canoeing, life saving, squash, badminton, Scottish country dancing and swimming. There is also a wide variety of fitness activities and other services include computer assisted fitness assessments and one to one consultations. 

The Sports Development Service in the Department of Sports Studies offers a range of opportunities for students to participate in sport and fitness activities. A sports centre membership offers excellent value for money for those who wish to exercise at their own convenience in first class facilities. For those wishing to participate in more structured activities there are also many opportunities to get active.

Instruction Classes
An extensive range of sport and fitness classes is offered to students during semester. These classes cater for all levels of ability and provide an excellent opportunity to learn new activities, participate in regular exercise and meet new people. The classes are offered throughout the day and in the evenings. For further information please pick up a Fitness Classes or Sports Coaching and Coach Education Courses brochure at the sport centre and swimming pool receptions. All student sports centre members receive instruction on advertised activities free of charge: Student non-members will have to pay an instruction fee.

Coach Education 
The coach education programme offers opportunities for students interested in sport to pursue these interests further. It will develop skills and provide practical sports experience, which can help enhance employability in sports-related careers. The Sports Coaching and Coach Education brochure highlights dates and times of all qualifications which will be offered this year.

Sports Coach UK workshop sessions aim to keep coaches up-to-date with current good practice and recent legislation. The aim is to support coaches currently working in the field. They also offer excellent opportunities to communicate and collaborate with coaches of different sports. Stirling Sports Council organise and administer these courses. To book a place please contact Stirling Sports Council (01786) 432323.

Sports Specific Qualifications
6 sports specific qualifications will run at the University of Stirling this year. To book a place on these courses please enrol at the sports centre and swimming pool receptions. Places are limited so please be sure to book early. 

Gaining Some Practical Experience: Coach Mentoring Scheme
Students who have successfully completed coaching qualifications are provided with an opportunity to assist with coaching sessions and classes offered by the Sports Development Service, University of Stirling. Student teachers with relevant qualifications support a number of sport and fitness classes.

Volunteering
Last year a successful ‘buddy exercise programme’ was introduced to help encourage students with disabilities to come and take part in health ad fitness activities in the university sport centre. We are currently looking for students to volunteer as a ‘buddy’ which would involve as little as one or two hours per week helping students become more familiar and confident using the university sports facilities. Support and help will be offered to ‘buddies’ throughout the semester. As well as being an incredibly worthwhile and rewarding experience, buddies will be able to gain some excellent sports development skills.

Anybody interested in any of the above, please contact Judith Ramsay.

Judith Ramsay
Sports Participation Manager
j.k.ramsay@stir.ac.uk