St Mary's Calne
This week, our sports scholars alongside our A Level PE students had the privilege of visiting the Sports Performance Department at Bath University, one of the leading institutions for sports science and elite athlete development in the UK. The day was designed to give students a hands-on experience of sports performance testing and an exclusive insight into the world of elite-level sport.
Students took part in a variety of practical sessions, immersing themselves in both laboratory and field-based testing. This included VO2 max testing, where students witnessed the process of measuring an athlete’s maximum oxygen uptake – a key indicator of aerobic fitness and endurance. Alongside this, students experienced field testing protocols, allowing them to assess agility, strength, and overall performance.
Another highlight of the day was the speed sessions, where students used cutting-edge technology, including speed gates, to measure reaction times and acceleration. This activity provided valuable insights into the importance of speed in athletic performance and how it is tested and developed in elite training programmes.
The visit concluded with an inspiring Q&A session with GB Olympic modern pentathlete Charlie Brown, who shared his journey as an elite athlete. Charlie discussed the dedication required to succeed at the highest level, balancing intense training schedules with the mental resilience needed to compete on the world stage as well as studying his degree at the University of Bath. He also spoke about the rewards of pursuing a career in sport, from the satisfaction of achieving personal goals to the opportunity to travel the world representing Great Britain. We also learnt about the changes of Modern Pentathlon with the horse riding element being switched out for an obstacle course race.
For our students, the trip was more than just an educational outing; it was an eye-opening experience into the world of sports performance. It highlighted the integral role of sports science in helping athletes reach their full potential.
A huge thank you to Bath University for hosting us and to Charlie Brown for taking the time to share his experiences.
Mr David Abini, Sports Scholars Programme Lead and Head of Lacrosse