University Top-Rated for its Sports Scene in Student Survey
Wednesday, 31 October 2018
The "sports scene" at the University of Worcester is among the best in the Country according to the findings of an independent national survey.
Worcester is one of 11 universities to be top-rated for its sporting activities in an annual survey of thousands of students by Which? University, which asked them what they loved about their university.
Students were asked to assess aspects like the sports facilities and range of sports clubs and teams available.
Which? University is a free and independent website aimed at helping students make more informed decisions about higher education. It asked over 5,000 students across 127 universities what they loved about their university, focusing particularly on how students rated extra-curricular activities such as nightlife, sports, students' unions, creative and political scenes.
Mick Donovan, Head of the School of Sport and Exercise Science, said: "We are delighted that our students are enjoying such a positive sporting experience during their studies at the University of Worcester. This is testament to both the quality and variety of sports and societies available to our students, but also the investment we have made in improving our sport offering. This includes the award-winning and fully accessible University of Worcester Arena, which provides a state-of-the-art hub for so many sporting activities, from elite to recreational sport. It has also hosted a number of major national and international sport and disability sport events for our students to enjoy. Our two professional teams, the Worcester Wolves basketball team and the jointly owned Severn Stars netball franchise, give students and the public the chance to see high-class sport on their doorstep every week, but also provide opportunities for talented students to progress.
"Alongside this, the opportunities we can offer our Sports students continues to grow, with partnerships such as with Spanish club, Valencia Basket, giving them the chance to have new experiences abroad and enhancing their employability. Our reputation as a leading university for inclusive sport has also been recognised internationally, with the University involved in discussions with the Tokyo 2020 Paralympic Committee on planning a legacy for its games."
Harrison Jarrett, Vice President Student Activities for Worcester Student's Union, which facilitates the sports clubs and societies, said: "I am really pleased to hear this positive feedback from our students. As the lead student representative for sport here at the University, I know how much being involved in sport and extra-curricular activities can transform your student experience. Research has shown that taking part in sport can help students to progress and do well academically and it is also great for building friendships and communities. I started off, for example, as a team member of football, then progressed to become Chair of the club, and am now Vice President for the Students" Union. We are working very hard at Worcester to make sport inclusive and accessible and the Union supports student-led club and society committees to ensure a great experience for their members, of all abilities."
Alex Hayman, Managing Director of Which? University, said: "Deciding on a university is an important decision for many, and while there are different league tables that help prospective students make an informed decision, it is always best to hear from current university students.
"Students may have different priorities beyond their academic objectives when it comes to choosing a university. Extra-curricular activities can play a pivotal role in the overall student experience, so it is important they consider all factors of university life before making a decision."