South Devon College: where will your New Year resolution take you?

Lose weight, do more exercise and cut back on spending, are three of the top New Year resolutions.But with most falling by the wayside within seven weeks, a Devon college is hoping it can help buck the trend well into 2022. South Devon College has hundreds of health courses on offer to lure people away from the biscuit tin and swap chocolates for chin ups.

“We have a course to suit anyone who wants to teach fitness, get fitter, or work in the industry,” said Daniel Gaze, Head of Sport, Adventure and Protective Services at South Devon College.

 “We offer the UK’s leading health and fitness qualifications from the YMCA – the UK’s principal health and fitness specific awarding body. We also offer apprenticeships and foundation degrees at our University Centre.”

Qualifications and courses on offer, some starting this month and free for most adults up to Level 3 through government funding, include YMCA Fitness Instructor Theory Certificate Level 2, YMCA Teaching Pilates Practitioner Level 3 and YMCA Personal Training (Gym-Based Exercise) Diploma Level 3, Level 5 Coaching Professional apprenticeship and a Foundation degree in Sports Coaching and Fitness at the University Centre South Devon (UCSD).

Bursary funds are also available to most adults to support with costs towards equipment and other costs such as childcare.

Leanne Byrne decided to go back to college after the lease on her business was up. “I spoke to a friend and she said I have such a love of fitness that maybe I should enquire about the courses at South Devon College.

“The fitness team are a great support and the quality of teaching I received was outstanding, motivational and inspirational,” said Leanne, who initially studied Level 2 Gym instructor, Level 3 Personal Trainer, Indoor Cycling Instructor and First Aid.

“Classes are fun and you always feel involved and that your opinions are heard and taken into account.”

Leanne then went on to do a degree in Sports Coaching and Fitness and since becoming qualified has worked in a number of gyms and leisure centres across Devon.

“I’m so glad I made that initial contact and my life is fuller and I’m surrounded by the best support.”

Leanne’s advice to anyone thinking of following in her footsteps is to just do it.

 “I hope that anyone making a New Year resolution to get fitter, or do more exercise, or to change their career, will look at the vast range of qualifications and courses we have on offer at South Devon College and be motivated to change their life forever,” said Daniel Gaze of South Devon College. “And if you’re unsure what qualifications are best for you our dedicated Adult Careers Coordinator is on hand to give one to one guidance.”

For more information go to www.southdevon.ac.uk