I have been heavily involved with the national Rugby programme HITZ run in partnership with Gloucester Rugby Club’s community department. The programme is for young people aged 16-18 who have an interest in sport, not necessarily rugby. There is no minimum qualification level to join HITZ and we are engaging with a diverse range of young people.

 

The ethos of the programme is based around core values of teamwork, respect, enjoyment, discipline and sportsmanship and all young people entering the programme are expected to embody these values. The programme is designed to offer nationally recognised qualifications; these include functional skills Maths & English, sport & leisure, employability, community sports leaders’ award and emergency first aid.

 

All young people will explore the sport and leisure industry and learn skills that will make them more employable in that sector and in the wider jobs market.  As part of the HITZ programme, young people have opportunities to gain valuable work experience. The course involves a high proportion of practical learning with young people gaining experience in a range of sports and sporting environments.

 

I am thoroughly enjoying delivering such a diverse programme, using sport to motivate and educate young people.