Sporting success for college students at regional championships

Students from Burton and South Derbyshire College (BSDC) recently showcased their talents at the AoC Sport regional championships, competing across multiple tournaments including cross-country, badminton, cricket and netball.

Three students represented the College in the cross-country competition, competing against athletes from colleges across the region.

Their performances secured qualification for the national championships, which will take place in April.

In addition, students competed in both cricket and netball, with the cricket team made up entirely of English for Speakers of Other Languages (ESOL) learners.

BTEC Level 3 Foundation Diploma in Sport student, Jacob Davies said: “I really enjoyed participating in the AoC Sport championships.

“They were engaging and well organised and I would 100 per cent take part again, as it was such a good experience.”

The netball team was made up of eight students from a range of different course areas. Lucy Kitchener, a Level 3 Sport student, competed in both netball and badminton.

Speaking about her experience, Lucy said: “The championships were very fun and enjoyable. I loved competing against other students and taking part in a variety of sports, including netball and badminton.

“It was great to see other people’s abilities and their passion for sport.”

More tournaments are scheduled to take place in the coming months, including the regional basketball championships as well as the national championships, where the College will once again compete in cross-country.

Exclusive to AoC Sport member colleges, the AoC Sport championships celebrate competitive sport within further education.

The event provides recognition, enjoyment and a unique opportunity for students to compete against athletes from colleges across the country.

Callum Gilbert, sports lecturer at Burton and South Derbyshire College (BSDC), said: “I’m immensely proud of all the students who took part in the AoC Sport regional championships. It was fantastic to see them go above and beyond, with several students achieving personal bests.

“Each year, we’re seeing an increasing number of learners getting involved in these competitions, which is extremely positive. It’s especially encouraging to see our ESOL students taking part.

“We actively promote sporting opportunities to learners from all course areas so it’s great to see that approach having such a positive impact.”