Q&A with past HNC/D Sports Coaching and Development student, Lucy Holt

Q.How was school for you?

A. I never really liked school. At the time, I had a lot of problems personal problems so it wasn’t the best time for me. I came out of school with average grades but I excelled in Sports and came out with a Distinction in my BTEC course. I then studied at Sixth Form for a year at my school which wasn’t really for me and I then decided to enrol at Newcastle College. This was by far the best decision I ever made - it’s got me to where I am today.

Q.Why did you decide to study higher education at NSCG?

A. I have always loved sports and being an athlete myself it’s always been a passion. I had previously studied part of the BTEC Level 3 Sports at Sixth Form, so I decided to study the HNC/D in Sports Coaching and Development. The sports industry is really varied and can open up many opportunities and doors for you. I never intended on going to University, but studying at NSCG really spurred and encouraged me to go for it.

Q.How has studying with us helped you in life and your career so far?

A. Studying at NSCG has given me the encouragement to try other things and careers. I decided to go onto Derby University to study the BA(Hons) Sport Coaching and Development as a top-up. I also wanted to join the RAF, however this didn’t go to plan due to having a history of Asthma. However, I am so pleased to tell you that the British Army are giving me the chance to prove that Asthma isn’t an issue for me, and once the assessment centres open up, I can get the ball rolling again with my application to join the Army.

Whilst studying at NSCG, I met some amazing people on my course and I am still in contact with some of my fellow students even now. The lecturers were so supportive and I enjoy keeping in touch with them too.

Q.What was the biggest challenge during your studies?

A. The transition from studying HE at college to University was a big challenge for me. I joined in Year 3 for my top-up year and everyone else had already been together for two years, so I had to get to know the lecturers, the building, how the library worked etc.

I was living away from home too which, was great but as the third year is so important, I had to prioritise studying over going out with friends which was worth the sacrifice in the end. I also had to balance a job with driving lessons and finding time to keep up with my passion for running.

Q. And the biggest reward for you?

A. The biggest reward for me would definitely be Graduation Day! Celebrating the success and saying goodbye to everyone. We were a small group of students and many of us had joined in the third year, which gave us a real bond – we stuck together throughout the course and offered support as needed which was really nice.

Q. You represented NSCG at numerous national cross-country events – is this something you are still involved with?

A. Unfortunately, I got injured before the 2018 AoC Sport National Championship and I made it through to claim gold which was amazing. However, whilst at University a bout of poor health meant that my running career took a hit. I am still training to ensure I keep up my fitness levels to enable me to join the Army and if successful, I may look at competing again in the near future. I am so proud that I competed for England on four occasions from the age of 14, and is something that I look back on with fond memories.

Q. Finally, what would you say to other people in your position, who are considering taking studying at NSCG?

A. I would definitely say go for it if it’s an option you’re considering. Due to the small class sizes, the lecturers get to know you, and you get to know them too. I found the team to be supportive of my studies and of my sporting interests away from the college and I could never thank them enough for this. I always encourage people to go and study at NSCG. I loved College and the HNC/D too. I would definitely love to go back and do it all again! My advice would be to appreciate every opportunity that comes at you for sure!

Find out more about studying the HNC/D Sport and Exercise Science (Coaching Science) and apply today!