2nd June 2026
Sport students inspired by hands-on university experience.
Sport students from Barking & Dagenham College were given a first-hand insight into university life during an educational visit to the Docklands campus of the University of East London.
Invited to take part in an Applied Sport and Exercise Science (ASES) event, students experienced a day designed to bring sport-related higher education to life through practical learning, professional facilities and real-world application.
Throughout the visit, learners took part in a range of interactive activities. These included delivering a coaching session to vulnerable children, undertaking physiotherapy assessment and recovery sessions, and exploring the specialist equipment and laboratories used by undergraduate students studying sport and exercise science.
The day concluded with a guided campus tour, practical advice around student finance, and an honest insight into day-to-day undergraduate life — helping students to better understand what studying at university really looks like.
For many, the experience shifted perceptions about higher education.
Corey Goodes, 18, reflected on the visit: “Before attending, I was completely against the idea of going to university because I was worried about the fees. However, after the event, I feel much more at ease understanding how it all works, and I felt really comfortable being in the university environment.”
The visit formed part of the department’s ongoing commitment to raising aspirations, broadening horizons, and supporting students to make informed decisions about their next steps in sport education and careers.
Lucas Michael, Curriculum Lead for Sport & UPS, said: “Opportunities like this are invaluable for our learners. Being able to experience university facilities, speak to staff and students, and take part in practical sessions helps demystify higher education and gives them confidence to consider pathways they may not have previously thought possible.”
The department looks forward to building on this partnership with the University of East London to continue creating meaningful progression opportunities for students.
