From lecture theatre to leading sessions in the community

For Lily, choosing the right course was about finding something that would prepare her for a career in improving people’s health. In search of a degree that would combine different aspects of wellbeing with real-world experience, she found BSc (Hons) Sports Nutrition and Health at the University of Derby.

“I chose the course because it offered a strong balance between physical activity, nutrition and public health,” Lily explains. “I was particularly drawn to the practical focus and the opportunity to complete an industrial placement year. I knew that real-world experience would be key to improving my employability.”

Learning that goes beyond the classroom

A key part of Lily’s experience was how her course brought learning to life. Rather than focusing purely on theory, it gave her opportunities to apply knowledge in practical settings, helping build confidence and understanding of how concepts translate into real-world situations.

“My favourite aspects of the course were the practical sessions and applied learning. I enjoyed being able to link theory to real life scenarios, particularly in modules that focused on health promotion, exercise prescription and nutrition.”

The course has given Lily a strong foundation in understanding how physical activity, nutrition and behaviour change can support children’s health. Alongside this, she developed practical skills in communication, organisation and evaluating impact, which she now uses every day in her role.

Building confidence during the industrial placement year

Lily’s industrial placement year gave her the chance to step into a fast-paced, real-world environment and take on responsibility early on. Working with children and young people, she developed confidence in leading sessions and adapting her approach to suit different groups.

“I completed my industrial placement year at PGL, working as an Outdoor Activity Instructor. My role involved delivering a range of outdoor activities for children and young people, ensuring sessions were safe, inclusive, and engaging, while supporting their physical, social, and personal development.”

The experience was fast-paced and hands-on, helping her develop strong communication skills, confidence in leading groups, and the ability to adapt quickly. Safeguarding, teamwork and risk assessment became part of everyday practice, laying important foundations for a future career working with young people.

“Working at PGL helped me develop confidence when leading groups of children, managing behaviour, and delivering activities in a fast-paced environment.”

Turning experience into a full-time role

By the time she graduated, Lily had already built-up valuable experience and a clear direction for her career. Through her placement and additional work experience, she developed the skills and confidence needed to move into a professional role.

“I am currently working as a Children’s Physical Activity and Health Officer at Derby County Community Trust. My role involves delivering physical activity and health programmes to children and young people, supporting healthy lifestyle behaviours, and working within schools and community settings to improve physical activity levels and overall wellbeing.”

The pathway into this position began while she was still studying. Through the Professional Placement module, Lily completed additional work experience with Derby County Community Trust’s Schools and Coaching Team. That experience led to casual work with the Health Team and eventually to a full-time role within the Children’s Health Team.

“My degree gave me a strong understanding of physical activity, health and behaviour change,” Lily explains. “Combined with my placement year and additional work experience, I was well prepared for the role and able to demonstrate relevant skills during the recruitment process.”

Making the hard work count

Balancing academic work with practical experience can be challenging, but for Lily it proved to be one of the most rewarding parts of her journey. Her ability to combine both ultimately led to a strong start in her career.

“I am most proud of achieving a first-class degree while also using my placement experiences to secure my first full-time role.”

Starting with work experience through the professional placement module, progressing into casual work and then securing a full-time position was a significant achievement. Successfully balancing academic performance with practical experience and seeing it lead directly to employment made it a rewarding outcome of the course.

“Successfully balancing academic performance with practical experience and seeing it lead directly to employment was a really rewarding outcome of the course.”

Advice for future students

Looking back, Lily emphasises the importance of making the most of every opportunity available during the course, particularly when it comes to gaining practical experience.

“I would advise students to make the most of all placement and work experience opportunities, including the professional placement module. Gaining experience alongside your studies helps build confidence, develop networks, and can open doors to future employment.”

She also highlights the long-term value of the Industrial Placement Year in shaping career direction and employability.

“The Industrial Placement Year is extremely important for career development. It allows you to gain real-world experience, develop key employability skills and understand what working in the sector is really like.”

Turning learning into impact

For Lily, the Industrial Placement Year played a crucial role in her career development. It provided real insight into working in the sector, strengthened key employability skills and ultimately helped turn academic learning into a meaningful career supporting children’s health and wellbeing.