ColegauCymru is pleased to share the findings of two independent reports looking into the effects of the Covid19 pandemic on sport and wellbeing in further education colleges across Wales.
ColegauCymru Project Officer for Sport and Wellbeing, Rob Baynham, said,
“The last 18 months have had a huge impact on the health and wellbeing of the nation as well as significant interruption to the education system. The research facilitated by BlwBo produced some intriguing insights and clear recommendations.”
Wellbeing insight, FE sports learners and the recovery from Covid19 - supporting the future of Welsh Sport
This research identified a need to re-engage with young people and the future workforce in sport, due to missed opportunities for coaching and volunteering during the pandemic. The report also looked at the return to sport and the negative impact on the number of girls currently enrolling and participating on sports programmes. There is now a clear need to specifically focus on promoting female competitive sport.
The value to learners of Active Wellbeing in FEI in Wales
This research found that active wellbeing has many potential benefits and that it could be used as a sustainable preventative mental health model. The findings suggest that an inclusive, person-centred approach and communication are key to ensuring the wellbeing of both learners and staff across FE colleges in the future.
Making the Connection Webinar
Our recent webinar discussed the impact of the pandemic on sport and wellbeing in further education colleges across Wales and how a better understanding of the connection between activity and wellbeing is needed in delivery and evaluation settings. We are grateful to Deputy Minister for Arts and Sport, Dawn Bowden MS, for her valuable input during the session. If you missed the webinar, there’s an opportunity to watch again.
Sport Wales Chief Executive Brian Davies added,
“Sport Wales is pleased to have supported this vital research. The pandemic has had a negative impact on so many in Wales, none more so than our young people. We have long known the benefits of active wellbeing and recognise that these findings highlight how the sector can work together in offsetting further negative impact.”
ColegauCymru Chief Executive Iestyn Davies concluded,
“It’s essential that as a sector, we commit to ensuring health and active wellbeing is sufficiently funded and remains at the forefront of every college agenda. This will ensure that FE colleges continue to be happy, healthy places in which to study and work.”
