At North Hertfordshire College, we’re proud to work with so many amazing employers who help our students apply their learning to real work challenges through placements. Luca, one of NHC’s Level 3 Sports, Coaching and Development students, is a great example of how well these placements support our classroom teaching!
Luca wanted to work in a gym environment for his placement as he’s particularly interested in that side of sports coaching. Working with Jacqueline, the work experience coordinator for Sports, Coaching, and Exercise Science at NHC, Luca identified Jones’ Fitness in Biggleswade as somewhere that he would like to work. The small independent gym and studio offers group training sessions and a fully-equipped gym to support members in reaching their health goals.
He told us: “The reason I chose Jones’ Fitness is because I used to go there before lockdown for their junior boxing classes. I really enjoyed the classes and thought it would be interesting to go back to where my boxing started to see how much it’s changed.”
North Hertfordshire College has previously worked with Jones’ Fitness, providing another student with a placement in the gym. Gym manager Sarah was enthusiastic about giving Luca a placement opportunity and knew exactly the best roles Luca would excel in and enjoy.
It’s safe to say that the placement has been a success. Reflecting on his experience, Luca said: “I’ve enjoyed my placement a lot, as it’s a great environment to be in. Everyone is friendly. I’ve worked with several of the trainers for different types of fitness classes and I’ve enjoyed working with all of them as they are great at helping me feel included in everything.
“As I’m someone who’s very active, it means I’m able to get a lot more out of these classes as I’m already familiar with this sort of training. I like to be able to show others how to do something and help them if there’s anything they’re struggling with in the classes.
“It’s also been brilliant in seeing all the different types of classes that the gym offers and what they all entail. I think this experience will really help me with any future opportunities within sports coaching.”
Sarah agrees that the placement has been a great opportunity for Luca and for the Jones’ Fitness team. She told us: “Luca has been an enthusiastic addition to our team, assisting with classes and engaging with members to create a positive and motivating atmosphere.
“His contributions have been greatly appreciated, and he has quickly become a valued part of the gym community. He’s eager to learn, interacts well with members, and has shown great initiative when helping out in our classes. It’s been a pleasure to have him on board.”
Thank you to the Jones’ Fitness team for supporting future fitness professional like Luca in their learning journey!
Could your organisation help the next generation of professionals develop their skills? Check out North Hertfordshire College’s Give a Future page to find out more about how you can share your expertise with our students.