A new collaboration is aiming to change leisure industry careers in Oxfordshire by creating a new pathway into the profession.

The partnership is between the Chartered Institute for the Management of Sport and Physical Activity (CIMSPA), Activate Learning, and Greenwich Leisure Limited (GLL), and is aiming to "revolutionise" the career landscape of the leisure industry in the region.

From its launch in September 2024 at City of Oxford College and University Centre and Banbury and Bicester College, the collaboration will present a new vocational route that will provide students with relevant industry qualifications and hands-on experience.

The programme will cover areas including sports facilities, gyms, swimming pools, and community centres.

CIMSPA, the career development entity for the sport and physical activity sector in the UK, works to help professionals and organisations prosper.

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They offer an employer-led, quality-assured education and training scheme for the sector.

Natasha Eason, associate director of education at CIMSPA said: "We are proud to announce Activate Learning as the first official CIMSPA Further Education partner.

"This partnership will provide students with comprehensive and enhanced learning opportunities, equipping professionals of the future with all the tools necessary to thrive in the industry and deliver a high standard of practice in their fields."

Andrew Slater, group director for lifestyles faculty and Banbury and Bicester College and City of Oxford College and University Centre - Technology Campus, added: "Activate Learning is passionate about creating opportunities for career success.

"This partnership aligns perfectly with our mission, providing students with the qualifications and real-world experience they need to flourish in the exciting world of leisure."

Gary Starkey, GLL head of service for Oxfordshire said: "We’re delighted to be partnering with CIMSPA and Activate Learning on this innovative programme that will provide a direct pathway for students to join our organisation.

"As a charitable social enterprise, we are committed to supporting the local communities in which we operate and that includes through job creation and career development.

"We have recently achieved IIP gold accreditation and are recognised for supporting our people to be their best and reach their potential."

The programme will provide industry recognised qualifications, work experience placements at GLL facilities, guidance from experienced professionals, and job-ready graduates who are equipped to secure roles in the leisure sector.

GLL is an enterprise managing leisure facilities across the UK.

Activate Learning is an education group working across further and higher education, schools, apprenticeships and training

To learn more about the partnership, visit the Activate Learning website or contact via telephone at 0800 612 6008.