Manchester Metropolitan University is planning to launch a BA in Leisure Management and is liaising with LivingWell representatives into the development of the course. The relationship is the first of its kind, and aims to meet the needs of the industry by giving graduates a full understanding of all aspects of health club management.

The degree programme will offer students a menu of leisure management and business modules. Those who elect to study a prescribed set of modules will be eligible to be considered for LivingWell bursaries at the end of their first year.

In addition, students receiving LivingWell bursaries will also be given the opportunity to undertake a work placement with LivingWell. Upon successful completion of their studies, `LivingWell Scholars` will be offered a fast-track position with LivingWell. LivingWell will also provide additional support and resources for the duration of the course.

Stuart Broster, LivingWell managing director, comments: “The health and fitness industry is going through an exciting period of change, and health club operators need to make sure that the managers of tomorrow can meet the new standards being set. This partnership represents a much-needed investment in educating the staff of the future.”

 

Chris Theyer, LivingWell training and development director, adds: “In the past, we haven`t been able to accept as many graduates as we would have liked, simply because many did not have the right skills. Health clubs are now multi-faceted, multi-million pound concerns - in many cases, managers need to oversee several businesses within the business. Graduate newcomers to the industry therefore need a firm grasp of business as well as fitness before they join, and this degree will help them achieve this.”

 

Mike Lowe, senior lecturer with the university`s Department of Environmental and Leisure Studies states: “As the leisure industry matures it is essential that emerging disciplines are recognised by academia. There is a need for academic institutions to work closely with employers to identify their needs and to academically underpin the development of the industry as a whole. The relationship between LivingWell and Manchester Metropolitan University represents a key development within the health club sector.”

 

The proposed degree is subject to validation and approval from Manchester Metropolitan University. For further details, or to apply for the proposed BA in Leisure Management, please contact Mike Lowe on 0161 247 5148. For information regarding opportunities within LivingWell, please contact Simon Stafford on 01663 766940.

 

For details of LivingWell clubs nationwide, call Freephone 0800 136 636.

 

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