The challenge for the education system and young people hoping to enter the industry is in understanding exactly which qualifications and skills will help them to get a job.

Furthermore, the increase in tuition fees will inevitably raise questions for many young people, as to whether entering University is a financially viable option. “Will I leave University equipped with the right skills to get a job in the sport, fitness and active leisure sector?” will no doubt be a common concern for prospective students and their families nationwide.

With rising tuition fees, we recognise that students will now expect more from their chosen qualification; we are therefore aiming to align graduate course material with leisure operator needs. We must ensure that the transition from education to employment is more of a natural progression.

Over the past three years, SkillsActive, in partnership with leading bodies REPs, IMSPA and Sports Coach UK, has completed a pilot of the HE Endorsement scheme for Sport and Active Leisure with 13 Higher Education Institutions (HEIs). The scheme’s objective is to demonstrate the value of matching the needs of employers with University courses; to increase the number of employees in the sector that hold relevant, graduate skills. Not only will students leave their degree being able to demonstrate critical thinking and an array of technical skills, but their duration of study will also equip them with the necessary work experience required for entry into the industry.

Over 20 HEIs are now signed up to the scheme across health and fitness, sports coaching and sports development. Prospective students can easily identify courses which will make them employable graduates, allowing them to make informed choices about their future. Furthermore, graduates will have increased networking opportunities with employers and relevant bodies in the sector.

University and course examples include Leeds Metropolitan University (BA Sport and Recreation Development), Southampton Solent University (BSc Fitness and Personal Training), University of Ulster (FdSc Sports Coaching), University of Glamorgan (Foundation Degree Rugby/Football Coaching and Performance) and University of Hull (BSc Sports Coaching and Performance). The HEIs can now ensure, and demonstrate, that their graduate level courses have currency and relevance to the industry.

Higher Education Endorsement provides clarity for students, parents and employers, highlighting the degrees which are recognised as meeting national industry standards. Essentially, this will help HEIs produce the highest calibre of leisure and fitness professionals, to ensure the future of our sector. The scheme will also be promoted to employers who may use it in recruitment practices.

We hope that the scheme offers added value to HEIs and the degree courses they offer. What we now need is for institutions to submit their courses for endorsement. We estimate there are hundreds of courses that could be endorsed and are keen to receive their submissions.