Solent connects students through sport at schools in Southampton

School Games, a national programme led by the Youth Sport Trust and funded by the Department for Culture, Media and Sport, is changing lives through competitive activity, with students and staff at Solent playing a key role in the south of England.

As a School Games partner, working with more than 70 primary and secondary schools across Southampton to champion sport and help grow young people's confidence when it comes to exercise, students at Solent are contributing to the success of this project. Offering over 250 hours a year of their time as volunteers, Solent undergrads are jumping at the opportunity to make a meaningful difference in the lives of young people.

Ollie Brann, BA (Hons) Physical Education student, says: "This experience has allowed me to gain invaluable insight into the school environment, working with young people across a variety of sporting disciplines.

"In addition to offering hands-on practical support, I have built strong relationships with school contacts. Volunteering has been incredibly rewarding, especially seeing the enthusiasm and excitement pupils feel when participating in events. Being able to encourage them to try their best, celebrate every achievement - big or small - and witness their growth has been fulfilling. I firmly believe that volunteering in school settings is a significant step toward my personal and professional development as I work towards becoming a PE teacher after completing my degree."

Delivering 68 events across the academic year with different schools in Southampton, many students who started out as volunteers have gone on to cement lasting relationships, resulting in job offers in primary and secondary education. This showcases the ripple effect of volunteering, which positively impacts everyone involved. Sport Education Partnerships Manger, Iain Molyneux, says:

"School Games has always been something that Solent is incredibly proud to be a part of, providing opportunities through sport to the entire Southampton school community. This not only benefits those schools, but also our students here at Solent by giving them invaluable experience of working with both pupils and staff to best prepare them for life after university, particularly in their careers."