2009 SkillsActive and Nancy Ovens bursars named

Lee Rowberry, SkillsActive - 27/05/09

Developed in 2006, the SkillsActive and Nancy Ovens bursary is designed to help individuals working within the sport, fitness, playwork, outdoors and caravan sectors improve their skills through an innovative training programme outside the scope of regular training.

Five bursaries have been awarded this year following the largest number of applications in the bursary’s history. More than 50 applications were received from individuals working across the active leisure and learning sector in full-time, part-time and volunteer capacities.

This year’s recipients are Mike Newton (judo); Naomi Harling (playwork); Malcolm Wallace (athletics); Rachel Light (swimming) and Matthew Rodney (football).

In line with the bursary guidelines, each bursar has created their own training experience to meet his or her learning and development needs. All of the recipients plan to travel abroad to carry out their training, shadowing top overseas coaches or professionals to improve their knowledge and skills in their chosen field.

SkillsActive group chief executive Stephen Studd says: “SkillsActive is committed to improving the skills of individuals working in our sector, so is delighted to be able to offer five personal development bursaries in partnership with the Nancy Ovens Trust.

“We hope that with our support, all of this year’s recipients will be able to fulfil their learning objectives and develop new and improved skills which they can implement and use within their current roles or future roles in the sector.”