Marjon and Plymouth Studio School focus on careers

Released: 22.03.17

Sporting neighbours, Plymouth Studio School and Marjon, have been working together to prepare students for their future careers in sport, with over 25 sixth formers taking part in a ‘Sport and Health Science Discovery Day’.

The year 12 students, who combine academic studies with the school’s unique sports performance programmes on-site at Marjon, got an insight into studying for careers in sport science, sport therapy and sports psychology at the University which is ranked amongst the best for sports.  

The inaugural event included an inspirational talk from Marjon’s Dean of Sport & Health Sciences, Professor Andrew Edwards, and interactive sessions in the world-class Sports Science Lab, which is used by elite athletes to monitor, assess and improve their performance, a campus tour and sessions on student funding.

The sports facilities at Marjon are ranked 4th best in the UK and student satisfaction for sports based courses is high, including 100% for Sport Development and PE, 92% for Sports Therapy and 91% for Strength and Conditioning.  

The sports and leisure industry is one of the fastest growing in the UK, supporting over 450,000 jobs and generating over 20 billion each year. 

95% of Marjon graduates are in work or further study (DLHE 2016. Locally, over half the workforce of Plymouth Argyle Community Trust studied at Marjon.

Mark Cahill, Principal of Plymouth Studio School, who himself is a graduate of Marjon said: “This is a fantastic opportunity for our Sixth Form students to see where the school’s focus on sport, combined with related A levels or BTEC Extended Diploma in Sport, can take them career wise.

“Over 50% of our Year 13s have applied to take up places in Further Education studying for sports related careers, so we’re delighted that we can work closely with Marjon to provide excellent progression opportunities for our students here on-site in Plymouth .”

The Discovery Day ended with the presentation of a  Progression Agreement plaque by Professor Andrew Edwards, Dean of Sport & Health Science to students of Plymouth Studio School.  

The agreement builds on the close working relationship which already exists between the specialist sports school and Marjon. It also offers additional mentoring and support services to PSS students to help them progress on to Higher Education and will give PSS students priority for the Marjon Student Shadowing Scheme .

Prof Andrew Edwards comments, “I’m thrilled to have welcomed so many talented and enthusiastic young people from this very dynamic school, and wish the students all the best in the future sporting endeavors and successful careers.”