STUDENTS at Bridgwater College have recently returned from a life-changing trip to South Africa after delivering coaching sessions to children at township schools. 


The 24 students, all studying sport and exercise, visited Port Elizabeth for what is the college’s sixth visit to South Africa and is run in partnership with United Through Sport which is based in the South African town. 


To support their visit, the students raised funds to purchase equipment and kit which they gave to the schools and used to support their coaching sessions. 


Medals and trophies were also awarded to the winning schools and were subsidised by the Trophycentre.com.


The students coached a variety of sports including football, rugby, netball and hockey.
They organised and ran a tournament for six schools, engaging more than 240 children aged up to 13 in the competition.


Students also spent time working with local children, teaching Maths and English. 


Student Luke Sinclair, of Bridgwater, said: “Observing how children learn in a classroom was a massive eye opener for me. Because of this I have changed my future career thoughts and now wish to also teach in a classroom.” 


Sam Reilly, advanced practitioner for Sports and Services, said: “A huge thank you to all those who have supported the venture. 


“Without your support we would not have been able to run the tournament and feed all 240 children!”