Students experience an African adventure

While most students took a well-earned break over the summer, four of Edge Hill's sport and physical activity students experienced the trip of a lifetime.

As part of a new partnership between Edge Hill University and UK Sport, called the IDEALS (International Development through Excellence and Leadership in Sport) programme, the group of second year students spent six weeks living and working in Ghana.  

"After an initial settling-in period, the students got involved in delivering a variety of sporting and physical education activities alongside Ghanaian staff and volunteers from a number of organisations, including schools and community groups," explains Senior Lecturer Sarah Pinder, who accompanied the students on their trip. "Our students were also invited to a range of cultural events, including a Ghanaian wedding, a reception at the British High Commission and a social event at Marcel Dessaily's Fitness Training Centre where they were thrilled to meet Chelsea footballer Michael Essien."  

"A lot of the activities we did were similar to those we do in the UK and everyone we worked with made us feel very welcome and really enjoyed themselves," says student Danny Bacon. He adds, "Out in Ghana we had to quickly gain an understanding of the local people, their culture and their way of doing things, as well as show respect for these ways. If you can do that and earn the trust of the people you are working with you can overcome challenges much easier. I've learnt that no matter where in the world you are working, if you can form an effective team you'll achieve so much more."  

Describing her experience student Charlotte Whiteside comments, "When we got out to Ghana it was completely different to what I'd expected, and although I was probably being naïve, it really wasn't like the stereotypical view of Africa that the media portrays at all." Charlotte continues, "For me, the trip has really made me learn to appreciate things so much more. It has taught me to think on my feet and shown me how to adapt in order to lead an effective coaching session, which is something I will take with me into my future teaching career. I now believe that it's not about having all the best facilities and equipment, what matters is by using creativity and imagination you can develop a worthwhile learning experience that students will enjoy and benefit from."  

With this first trip to Africa deemed a resounding success, the aim now is to further develop the programme and widen links with the Ghanaian institutions. "Plans are already underway for next year's IDEALS Ghana programme," says Sarah. "We are also developing relationships on a number of fronts with the University of Ghana, including a Leverhulme Trust funded research project, which should be really exciting. The possibility of reciprocal placements, with Ghanaians coming to Edge Hill to study is also being looked at, so all in all this could be the start of something very special."  

As part of the ongoing student-led programme, all four students will now become ambassadors for the project and dedicate time promoting the scheme and their amazing experiences to others.  

"I can't wait to tell everyone about the trip and will definitely recommend they apply," concludes Charlotte. "I enjoyed every second, it was an experience I will never forget and treasure for the rest of my life."