Friday 14th June 2024

Read about the eight worthy winners of our 2024 SSS Awards, handed out at a ceremony on Wednesday evening at the Stirling Court Hotel.

Aonghus Sellar collecting the Dr Rob Macpherson Quaich from Dave Baker of Decathlon UK on stage

The annual Scottish Student Sports Awards took place on Wednesday 12th June at Stirling Court Hotel, where eight deserving recipients were rewarded for their commitment over the season.

The awards up for grabs on Wednesday night celebrated everyone from our top performing athletes and clubs, through to our hard working volunteers and the coaches delivering success on the student stage.

Thank you to everyone who helped the night run so smoothly. Particular thanks must go to Decathlon who supplied a range of exciting prizes for our winners. The successful recipients of the two man tent were the talk of the night!

Here’Fs who walked away with the awards on Wednesday.

Coach of the Year: Dean Robertson (University of Stirling)

Under Dean’s guidance, the UoS Golf Club have achieved remarkable national and international success in the past 12 months. His golfers have delivered consistent podium finishes across all SSS Golf competitions (men’s, women’s & team), and delivered team league success in both the Conference Cup and BUCS Championship.

This athletes also achieved top three finishes in the R&A Student Tour, while Dean has been appointed as the GB&I Captain for the Walker Cup later this year – setting a new benchmark for student golf at the highest level in the amateur game.

Also shortlisted:

  • Mat Trodden (University of Edinburgh, swimming)
  • Stuart Milne (University of St. Andrews, football)

Club of the Year: University of St. Andrews Tennis Club

With a record 400+ members, Saints Tennis combined performance and participation by achieving the highest number of BUCS points in the institution while simultaneously running a very successful recreational programme.

Tennis Scotland’s 2x University of the Year delivered over 16 hours of weekly sessions, including adding new pickleball and other racket sports to their offering. Outside of the univeristy, they launched three community outreach and workforce development project, including their Tennis for Girls initiatives which introduces tennis to new female junior players, and their parents.

Also shortlisted:

  • University of Dundee Dance Club
  • University of Aberdeen Futsal Club
  • University of Stirling Men’s Rugby Club

Team of the Year: University of Edinburgh Women’s Orienteering

It’s been a year of domination for UoE’s female orienteerers. They secured the top six teams at the Scottish Student Orienteering Championships, and lifted their 10th consecutive BUCS title. Such was their strength, they won 56 out of the 60 BUCS points available in women’s orienteering this year! Five individuals were selected to represent GB at the FISU World Orienteering Championships.

Outside of student sport, their athletes enjoyed multiple podium finishes at the British Orienteering Championships, and six athletes have been selected to compete in international competition.

Also shortlisted:

  • University of Strathclyde Women’s Water Polo 1’s
  • University of St. Andrews Women’s Football

Male Athlete of the Year: Charlie Aldridge (University of Edinburgh)

Reigning Male Athlete of the Year Charlie made it a second successive title on Wednesday and it’s no surprise seeing his list of accolades this season.

The now professional XC rider competed in four rounds of the 2023 UCI World Cup and picked up European bronze at U23 level.

His crowning moment, however, came when he collected a first rainbow jersey by winning the 2023 UCI World Championships, competing at home in the Tweed Valley.

Also shortlisted:

  • Ben Sandilands (SRUC, athletics)
  • Greg Lobban (Heriot-Watt University, squash)

Female Athlete of the Year: Megan Keith (University of Edinburgh)

2023/24 has been a real breakthrough year for Megan. At age grade level, she won two European Golds, with British and European records falling along the way. In the XC season, here 1 min 23 winning margin was more than double the Championship’s best ever.

After getting her first taste of senior track competition at the 2023 World Championships in Budapest, this week Megan stormed to Bronze at the European Championships in Rome over the 10k. Later this summer she’ll make her Olympics debut.

Also shortlisted:

  • Katie Shanahan (University of Stirling, swimming)
  • Faye Rogers (University of Aberdeen, swimming)

Volunteer of the Year: Tom Stewart (University of St. Andrews)

There aren’t many jobs Tom doesn’t do in the footballing world at Saints Sport. This year he took on the roles of United Colleges Amateur Football Manager, Receational Coach, Sunday Leagues Coordinator, 2nd Team Player/Coach, and Club Vice-President.

He led twice weekly rec training sessions, and created a club buddy scheme for new members. Supporting athletes at every level of the sport has been his passion, which saw Tom develop a pathway for lover team players to progress across multiple squads.

His popular Sunday league and 6-a-side matches boosted participation, and also supported multiple charity initiatives with over £4.5k raised. His week-in-week-out dedication is unrivaled and his passion for the club and sport is clear for all to see.

Also shortlisted:

  • Gary Caldwell (University of Stirling, football)
  • Alyth Allen (University of Glasgow)

Honorary President’s Medal: Ross Simpson

Ross had dedicated over 15 years of his career to developing student sport at every level.

From his time as Sports Union President at Heriot-Watt University, Ross was a SUS/SSS staff member for six years before moving down the stairs of 48 Pleasance to University of Edinburgh Sport, where over a nine year tenure was instrumental in the great expansion of EUSU.

Ross has taken on many additional responsibilities including being an SSS Executive Committee Member, sitting on various BUCS Committees, helping lead the Volunteer Zambia programme, and having key FISU involvements at the World University Games in 2019 and 2024.

Dr Rob Macpherson Award: Aonghus Sellar (SS Football)

The Dr. Rob Macpherson Award is a special one for SSS – honouring a remarkable man, while celebrating the incredible work that volunteers do to keep our sports and events running throughout the year.

Our recipient for this year has been instrumental in reshaping the image and success of SS Football’s digital presence. Aonghus has put tireless work into reporting on student activities from across Scotland, and doing in-depth research into the history of our competitions to reach a new generation.

Despite being in a new full-time role, Aonghus has no hesitation about using holidays to support, and this season he attended all Conference Finals, plus our Men’s and Women’s Football Finals – even though they took place on separate days!

Aonghus has been a consistent and enthusiastic communicator with the clubs and as he steps up to the Chair role for 2024/25, we can’t wait to see what he has planned to help grow the sport over the coming year.

Also shortlisted:

  • Kirsten Mullen (SS Athletics)
  • Sandy Bond (SS Cycling)
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Friday 17th May 2024

Have your say on the future direction of Scottish Student Sport as we seek views ahead of developing an updated strategy.

Further to recent correspondence across the membership the Executive Council of SSS has elected to undertake a refresh of the organisation’s strategy, so as to best position SSS to meet current challenges and future opportunities.

SSS is facing some funding challenges over the next 12-18 months, driven mainly by an indication from Scottish Funding Council (SFC) that its current grant funding to SSS (@ £100k p/a) will be discontinued after 31st July 2025.

In addition, SSS is facing inevitable rises to its core costs at a time when asking members and individual participants to pay more is expected to be difficult.

Alongside the pressure on resources there is, however, also an opportunity to think differently about SSS and to explore alternative approaches to the future. Perhaps the single biggest opportunity in this regard will come from reviewing our relationship to sportscotland. SSS will be invited in to discuss future funding arrangements around Oct 2024 ahead of sportscotland’s new financial year in April 2025.

It is therefore a very interesting moment to be thinking afresh about our core priorities and asking the right questions about where our focus and responsibilities should rest from 2025 onwards.

With this in mind, all members and partners are asked to contribute to a short strategic review exercise this summer.

Phase one of this is to complete a catch-all survey aimed at gathering a range of views.

All those with an interest are invited to complete the survey which can be found here.

Those completing the survey are asked to:

  • Confer with colleagues if this seems appropriate (although multiple responses per institution are welcome)
  • Refer to existing SSS literature as included in tandem with the survey (see below)
  • Familiarise themselves where possible with SSS’ current funding, structures and output

SSS Strategy 2021+      Joining The Team     Work With Us 

 

The survey will stay open until midnight on Monday 17th June. To see what’s included in the survey before filling it out, click here.

Thereafter, the SSS Executive Committee will oversee further consultation with members and partners which will include:

  • A session to explore interim results and gather view at the SSS Conference on 13th June
  • Consideration of the full survey results at Exec Council meeting on 21st June
  • Dedicated meetings with key groups including College leads, sabbatical students and Directors/ Heads of Sport during July and August
  • A series of partner meetings to be concluded by end August

This will allow for a revised strategy to be issued and tested with members during September and give SSS a clear direction to carry in to sportscotland review meetings in the autumn.

Looking ahead to summer of 2025 some change seems inevitable and so even if we are not yet clear what we transitioning towards it is very likely that some organisational changes will come in time.

Nevertheless, in 2024-25 SSS will likely aim to stay true to our current direction and ambition, funding for which our partners have already committed, and to carefully time any structural change so as to deliver for our members, honour partner commitments and where possible, protect our staff.

If at any stage you wish to discuss the future of SSS, please reach out to COO Stew Fowlie or to Jonny Pearson via chair@scottishstudentsport.com

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Friday 19th April 2024

Details have been released for the highly-anticipated Scottish Student Sport Conference 2024, powered by Technogym.

The 2024 Scottish Student Sport Conference, powered by Technogym, will take place on 12th-13th June at Stirling Court Hotel.

Always a highlight of the SSS calendar, the conference brings together our community to network, share practice and celebrate the success of student sport. For the first time, we’re inviting SGBs and decision makers from across Scottish sport on Wednesday 12th to put students in the spotlight, and promote closer collaboration.

Wednesday night will see our ever-popular SSS Awards Night with all the information about categories and nominations to come soon!

Thursday’s agenda will feature voices from across the SSS network, including the Sabbatical Officer Group who will be sharing early findings from their cost of living student survey.

Late sign up is still available! Please email jo@scottishstudentsport.com to secure your place.

Pricing

SSS Members can take advantage of a reduced rate of £70 for a single day ticket, £70 for our awards evening, or for the biggest saving, our multi-day packages: two days for £135 or two days plus awards for £200.

Non-Members can attend a single day for £85, with awards available for an additional £85. Multi-day options allow for a two day conference package of £160, or add the awards evening for a total cost of £245.

Accommodation

The deadline has passed to book accommodation on site, but we recommend you check the local area for last minute options.

Agenda

We’re delighted to reveal an outline of events for the two days so you can begin planning what to attend! Here’s how the days will look.

 

View the Digital Programme here

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Tuesday 9th April 2024

Get the lowdown as we prepare for two huge football finals this week! Heriot Watt play Stirling in the mens, and St. Andrews face Edinburgh in the womens.

One of the biggest weeks in the Scottish Student Sport calendar is here as the nation’s top footballers prepare for our Football Finals.

In the Men’s competition, Heriot Watt University and the University of Stirling face off for a third consecutive year. aiming to lift the historic Queen’s Park Shield in its 103rd year.

We have another repeat of the 2023 final in the Women’s competition where the University of Edinburgh will be hoping to stop the University of St. Andrews making it three wins in a row.

Get the lowdown ahead of both finals below.

Queen’s Park Shield Final: Heriot Watt University vs University of Stirling

  • Wednesday 10th April
  • 14:00 kick off
  • Oriam outdoor pitches, Heriot Watt campus

Both universities will be looking for bragging rights come Wednesday with their two previous finals being split one apiece.

Heriot Watt won the first of those match-ups 2-1 in 2022 while Stirling go into the final as defending champions following their tight 1-0 win last year.

The hosts have enjoyed a fairly smooth ride to the final as they claimed a 3-1 win away to Aberdeen in the quarter final before coming out on top in a thriller at St. Andrews. 5-3 was the score that day.

On the other side of the draw, Stirling cruised past Edinburgh 6-2 but were made to work for a 2-1 win at home to Strathclyde.

#SheCanSheWill Cup Final: University of St. Andrews vs University of Edinburgh

  • Thursday 11th April
  • 15:30 kick off
  • University of St. Andrews pitches

Edinburgh are facing the mighty task this week of playing two huge games in as many days. On Wednesday they take on Nottingham Trent in their first BUCS Premier North play-off. On Thursday, all the attention shifts to Fife as they travel to take on a formidable St. Andrews team.

St. Andrews walked away the victors in the last two finals against Edinburgh and after their performances this season will back themselves to secure the hat trick. The road here proved to be easy going with a 18 goals scored in their quarter and semi final appearances versus Edinburgh 2’s and the University of Glasgow respectively.

Edinburgh have been in fine form themselves – their BUCS playoff evidence of that. The challenge will be to regroup and recover in time to stake a claim for the #SheCanSheWill Cup on Thursday.

How to follow

We’ll have a live stream of the Queens Park Shield Final over on the SSS YouTube channel – coverage starting just before kick off.

Hit up the SSS Instagram and SSF Instagram for updates throughout both games, including as live highlights and score updates.

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Thursday 4th April 2024

West College Scotland’s Active Health Coordinator Savannah Antoine brings students together for three days of activity and inclusion.

A group of staff and students at West College Scotland celebrating International Mother Language Day

The power of sport to connect was on full display at West College Scotland when over 200 students came together to celebrate International Mother Language Day with three days of activity, camaraderie and fun.

International Mother Language Day – which took place on February 21st – is a globally-observed day created to highlight the importance of linguistic diversity in fostering mutual understanding and respect. For West College Scotland, this offered the chance to connect ESOL (English as a Second Language) and sports students across a variety of inclusive activities, led by their Active Campus Coordinator and Wellbeing team.

Over the three day programme, students participated in sports from table tennis to basketball. A buddy system operated between ESOL and sports students to create connections across the participants and create an enriching cultural experience for all involved.

The day was the brainchild of West Scotland College’s Active Campus Coordinator Savannah Antonie. In her short time in the role she has already transformed how sport and activity is accessed by the entire student population.

An image showing Savannah Antoine

Savannah is part of the Active Campus Network, supported by Scottish Student Sport, sportscotland and Colleges Network: an initiative aimed at creating active, healthy environments across the nation’s college campuses.

The energy and excitement across those participating was clear. Natalia Skoromna, a Ukrainian student, commented:

“I wasn’t really sure what to expect but it has been so much better than I thought – I’ve loved it! It has been a really good morning and has really helped my mental health, I already feel much more relaxed. The lecturers have been wonderful – me and my friends would love to be able to do this every week.”

The influence that Savannah has had on campus was shared with her colleagues. Sports Lecturer Alex Beattie highlighted:

“The difference in sport provision since Savannah has started is amazing. Sports halls, which were previously dead space during lunchtimes or break times, are now filled. It’s all students from all sections of the college who are coming and playing. It feels like a college where you’re really playing sport. You see the engagement of the students, it’s been amazing and has made a massive difference.”

International Mother Language Day is just part of a series of initiatives being run across the College to help encourage students to get active on campus. We can’t wait to see sport continue to flourish at West College Scotland!

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Friday 29th March 2024

Scottish Student Sport welcome Ruairidh Campbell as our new Communications Coordinator!

Ruairidh Campbell - new SSS Communications Coordinator

It may be the business end of the SSS competitive season, but we’ve been hot on recruitment and are thrilled to unveil Ruairidh Campbell as our new Communications Coordinator!

We caught up with Ruairidh in his first week as the rugby referee kicks off his time at 48 Pleasance.

What are you most excited about in joining the SSS team?

100% it has to be getting the chance to tell the stories of everyone that helps contribute to Scottish Student Sport. I think everyone involved, whether participating, volunteering or just following, knows of the people and characters without whom sport just wouldn’t be the same.

It’s also going to be lots fun being back on the ground at SSS events. These were always a highlight of the year in my student days so it will be great to capture all the energy and excitement on the day. Lucky for me the SS Athletics Outdoor Championships will be one of my first events.

Take us back to your student sports days. How were you involved?

I spent five fantastic years at the University of Glasgow with most of my time focused on the Athletics Club. When I first joined in 2016, we still had Laura Muir (then fresh from the Rio Olympics) as a member so it was pretty surreal arriving at a flat party to see her there! Over my time with the club I competed at every opportunity on the track and spent a few years on the club committee; ultimately leading to me joining the Scottish Student Athletics Development Group as Vice Chair.

What was your best student sport memory/experience?

My athletics career certainly peaked when I represented Glasgow as Gus (the tiger) in the BUCS Nationals mascot race. By far it was the hardest race of my life (the head especially was a nightmare to keep on) but we had a lot of fun and raised some money for charity too.

Are you still active in sport?Ruairidh Campbell refereeing a rugby match

I still try to compete in athletics on the road and track but these days I’m mostly found on the rugby pitch as a match official. Week to week I referee in the FOSROC Super Series and assistant referee the professional URC and EPCR competitions. I also ref 7s internationally which has led to me travelling to some pretty cool places.

One match I’m yet to tick off though is the BUCS Scottish Conference Final so I may have to change that next year!

What’s your ideal holiday destination?

Italy is definitely a favourite. The food, the scenery, the food again – how could you not love the country? The next holiday plan involves taking a campervan around the Dolomites which I’m very excited for. Saying that, it’s also very hard to beat the Outer Hebrides on one of those rare days the weather is on your side.

Pineapple on pizza: yes or no?

At risk of being turned back at the border on my next visit to Italy I better say no!

To chat about all things SSS media, Ruairidh can be reached at ruairidh@scottishstudentsport.com

Rugby photo ©: Bryan Robertson

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Wednesday 17th January 2024

British Blind Sport (BBS) is hosting a free sports taster event for blind and partially sighted people in Glasgow, in partnership with Scottish Disability Sport.

Try VI-inclusive sports in Glasgow at British Blind Sport’s ‘Have a Go’ Day for blind and partially sighted people!

British Blind Sport (BBS) is hosting a free sports taster event for blind and partially sighted people in Glasgow, in partnership with Scottish Disability Sport. The event will take place on Saturday, January 27th from 10am to 3pm at the Emirates Arena, 1000 London Road, Glasgow G40 3HG. The event will feature a fantastic line-up of sporting activities for blind and partially sighted people of all ages and abilities to participate in alongside their friends and family. Confirmed activities include athletics, judo, tennis, and goalball.

BBS ‘Have a Go’ Days have been held successfully across the country for many years, encouraging blind and partially sighted people to become more active. The event will give blind and partially sighted people in Glasgow and the surrounding area the opportunity to try adapted sports and learn about inclusive opportunities that they can continue to enjoy and participate in after the event in their local area.

Vicky Cook, Participation Officer at British Blind Sport said, “We are delighted to start the new year by hosting a ‘Have a Go’ Day in Glasgow to give blind and partially sighted people a chance to try out different sports and hopefully discover a new passion or hobby. Physical activity plays such an important role in living a happy and healthy life, our ‘Have a Go’ Days ensure that more people will get an opportunity to experience some of the activities available.”

To register to attend, please follow the link to complete the form:

Junior: www.britishblindsport.org.uk/forms/view/juniorglasgowhagd

Adults: www.britishblindsport.org.uk/forms/view/seniorglasgowhagd

For more information, please visit the British Blind Sport website:  www.britishblindsport.org.uk/hagd

Or contact Vicky Cook, Participation Officer on 07983498120 or email vicky@britishblindsport.org.uk

British Blind Sport is always grateful for the help of volunteers at events. Please get in touch to discuss volunteering opportunities.

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Tuesday 16th January 2024

Scottish Student Sport are delighted to welcome Sophie Charlton to the team, taking on the Events Coordinator role!

Scottish Student Sport are delighted to welcome Sophie Charlton to the team, taking on the Events Coordinator role! Sophie is well known within the student sport network, having previously served as the University of Stirling’s sports president and in a number of SSS Volunteer roles.

We caught up with Sophie to find out a wee bit more about her.

What are you most excited about in joining the SSS team?

I would be lying if I didn’t say I was buzzing about getting more kit but, in all seriousness, I’m really excited to learn about all the SSS sports and support our volunteers in running all 120+ events across the year, and in particular the College and Conference Finals days. 

I was part of the 2019 Conference Cup Finals day and it was one of my favourite sporting memories from university. The atmosphere around the grounds was brilliant, the sun was out and everyone from your university was supporting each other, so being able to be part of creating these unforgettable memories for future students will be really rewarding.  


What’s the best live sporting moment that you’ve been a part of/seen?

I’ll always put an Irish shirt on before a Scottish for the Six Nations but being at Murrayfield and hearing the bellow of O Flower of Scotland was pretty special. 

 

Could you tell us a bit about your sporting background? What’s your preferred sport?

I loved getting involved in every sport I could at school – proud to say that me and my friends got an allocated lunch time football slot for girls only after being kicked out of all the boys’ games. I was mainly a swimmer and hockey player in high school, as well as dabbling in netball, tennis, cross country, athletics, and having a pretty successful stint as a tag rugby player. Through university I mainly played hockey but also gave water polo a go before lockdown and now I currently play hockey in Edinburgh for Inverleith HC. 

What is your ideal holiday destination?

Either anywhere in the sun (usually Portugal) or anywhere that RyanAir flies to for less than £30 return. 

 

Did you study in Scotland? Do you have a particular allegiance to one of our member institutions that we ought to know about?

I may or may not be a former #BleedGreen alumnus. Although, hopefully people don’t hold the Stirling allegiance against me. 

 

Ham and Pineapple on Pizza, yes or no?

Yes – is there any other pizza topping combo to have?

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Monday 15th January 2024

Embrace a Healthier You in 2024: New Year, New Active Lifestyle

Embrace a Healthier You in 2024: New Year, New Active Lifestyle

As we usher in the new year, many of us are contemplating resolutions and goals to make positive changes in our lives. For students looking to kickstart 2024 on a healthy note, adopting an active lifestyle can be a transformative choice. Whether you’re starting fresh or rekindling good habits, incorporating exercise into your routine can contribute not only to physical fitness but also to mental wellbeing.

Benefits of Regular Exercise: Unleashing the Power of Movement

The college or university experience is a whirlwind of excitement, change, and new beginnings. For many students, it marks a period of significant lifestyle shifts – moving away from home, making new friends, and, of course, hitting the books. Amidst this exciting journey, it’s essential for students to carve out time for physical activity and exercise. The benefits extend far beyond just physical health; they play a vital role in maintaining mental well-being and academic success.

The Multifaceted Benefits of Exercise

1. Relieving Stress:

Student life comes with its fair share of stress – academic pressures, social adjustments, and the general hustle and bustle. Exercise serves as a powerful stress buster, releasing endorphins that act as natural mood lifters and stress relievers.

2. Enhancing Mood:

The connection between exercise and mood improvement is well-established. Engaging in physical activity triggers the release of neurotransmitters like serotonin, contributing to a more positive state of mind.

3. Improving Memory:

As students juggle lectures, assignments, and exams, a sharp memory is invaluable. Regular exercise has been linked to improved memory retention and cognitive function, which can significantly aid in academic performance.

4. Improving Concentration:

Staying focused during lengthy study sessions can be challenging. Exercise has been shown to enhance concentration and cognitive abilities, allowing students to absorb and retain information more effectively.

Prioritising Exercise in a Packed Schedule

While it may seem daunting to find time for exercise amidst the myriad of student activities, dedicating just 30 minutes, three times a week, can make a substantial difference. Consider incorporating the following into your routine:

  1. Join a club: Join one of the amazing sports clubs that your College or University offers.
  2. Gym Sessions: Hit the campus gym for a mix of cardio and strength training.
  3. Fitness Classes: Join group fitness classes – a fun way to stay active while making new friends.
  4. Swim Sessions: A refreshing swim not only offers a full-body workout but is also a great stress-reliever.
  5. Physical Activities you Enjoy: Whether it’s playing a sport, going for a run, or dancing, choose activities that bring you joy to make exercise a sustainable part of your lifestyle.

The Transformational Impact of Regular Exercise

Committing to regular exercise during your college years doesn’t just contribute to physical fitness. It has a profound impact on your overall well-being. Expect to feel less stressed, more energised, mentally sharper, and physically fit. As you navigate the exciting and challenging aspects of college life, prioritising your health through exercise will undoubtedly set the foundation for a successful and fulfilling academic journey.

So, lace up those sneakers, find an activity you love, and make exercise an integral part of your college experience – your body and mind will thank you!

Ways to Get Active Near You: Tailoring Fitness to Your Lifestyle

Regardless of your fitness level or experience, there are numerous ways to get active, especially as a student. Consider the following options to kickstart your fitness journey:

  1. University/College Resources: Speak to your university’s or college’s sports union or sports facility to discover the variety of facilities, classes, and support available to you.
  2. Couch to 5k Programme: Set a personal fitness goal with the Couch to 5k programme – a structured plan to guide you from the couch to running 5 kilometers.
  3. Park Runs: If you’re interested in running and want a supportive community, join your local Park Run. It’s a free, weekly event that welcomes runners and walkers of all levels.

Mindfulness: Nurturing Your Mental Wellbeing

Transitioning back to university or college life can be overwhelming. Mindfulness and meditation can be powerful tools to manage stress and enhance your mental well-being:

  1. Headspace’s Stress Guide: Navigate stress with Headspace’s comprehensive guide.
  2. Headspace’s Meditation Benefits: Understand the multitude of benefits that meditation can bring to your life.
  3. Headspace’s Mindful Eating: Explore the connection between mindfulness and your eating habits.
  4. Headspace’s Breathing Exercises: Learn effective breathing exercises to calm your mind.

For a more immersive experience, check out Headspace’s interactive guides on Netflix.

As we embark on a new year, let’s commit to a healthier and more active version of ourselves. Whether you’re hitting the gym, lacing up your running shoes, or practicing mindfulness, taking these steps can lead to a more balanced and fulfilling 2024. Here’s to your health and well-being in the new year!

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Monday 18th December 2023

In the spirit of collaboration the Active Campus Christmas Festival, organised by Glasgow Clyde College, West College Scotland, City of Glasgow College, and Kelvin College, unfolded as a resounding success.

In the spirit of collaboration the Active Campus Christmas Festival, organised by Glasgow Clyde College, West College Scotland, City of Glasgow College, and Kelvin College, unfolded as a resounding success.

Spearheaded by Active Campus Coordinators Natalie Dott, Savannah Antoine, Gregor Cree, and Grant Sutherland, the event aimed to foster engagement among supported learning students and provide a boost of fun as the autumn term draws to a close.

The festival, kindly hosted by the University of Strathclyde, provided a host of opportunities for a diverse group of 50 students from the various colleges. Amidst the festive spirit, these individuals got stuck into a variety of activities – all facilitated by a cohort of enthusiastic sport students from City of Glasgow College. Their energy and commitment was brilliant, helping to engage the participants in activities including badminton, zumba, boccia, and various ball games.

The event was not just about the activities; it was also about getting students trying new experiences, creating new relationships, and, most importantly, having fun. It was excellent to see students from the four colleges forming friendships and building a sense of community and belonging.

The Christmas Festival will hopefully provide a template for future success within the College sector, where there is a significant appetite to find creative ways to engage students in sport and active health – and particularly those students that would normally face barriers to inclusion.

Active Campus Coordinator Natalie Dott reflected on this pioneering day saying “The first of many Active campus festivals took place in Strathclyde Sports facility which saw over 50 supported learning students taking part in different forms of physical activity. This events outcome was many happy faces and lots of eager students who now want to participate in activity at their own college who wouldn’t have done so otherwise without attending this event.”

Collaborative Achievement: Within a short span of time, the four colleges Active Campus Coordinators successfully combined efforts to orchestrate an event benefiting 50 students. This collaboration exemplifies the potential for joint initiatives among educational institutions at a regional level.

Engagement and Sustainability: The City of Glasgow College students’ handling of activities paves the way for replicable models in future events. Their involvement not only made the event successful but also set a sustainable template for subsequent ones, with a focus on delivery to students, by students. This experience will also have enhanced their own learning and contributed to the outcomes of their course.

Community Building: Beyond the activities, the festival provided a platform for students to step into a university setting, expressing interest in broader engagements like joining the University of Strathclyde gym and getting to see the club structure. It also facilitated the formation of new friendships among individuals with shared experiences.

As for the future, there’s a collective desire across the Active Campus Network to replicate this model in varied formats throughout the year. This event serves as a testament to the positive effect of the Active Campus Coordinator roles in Scotland’s Colleges, showcasing the power of collaboration to provide opportunity to previously underserved student communities.

You can see the full album of photographs from the event, taken by Andrew Leinster, here.

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