A Google Meets session with course tutors is available below. This is a great opportunity for you to ask any questions and get course information in real-time!
5:30 - 8:00pm
"We will inspire the next generation of sports professionals to develop transferable employability skills, which enable them to thrive with confidence in their chosen career pathway"
Sport Mission Statement
Gareth Morris
Link tutor for Level 3 Year 1 Extended diploma in Sport (Coaching and Development), Lecturer in Sport, Cross college quality coordinator.
Academic background: Degree in Sport from University of Wales Institute Cardiff, PGCE (Masters level) in Secondary Physical Education from University of Wales Institute Cardiff.
Industry Background: I have worked at Suffolk New College as a Sports Lecturer for 9 years and I am still as passionate about our students success as I was on day one. My sporting background is in rugby and football which I have coached at county level and also continue to coach outside of the college environment currently. Since retiring from playing I have taken up triathlon and recently finished my third Ironman distance event.
Contact details: garethmorris@suffolk.ac.uk
Matt Oldfield
Lecturer and Link Tutor for Sports and Exercise Science
Lecturer in Level 2 & 3 Sport
Growing up in Stockport, Greater Manchester I studied Level Three Sport at Sixth Form and also achieved my level 2 in sports coaching. Once leaving Sixth Form I went straight into industry starting off with coaching within schools and holiday clubs.
I then went on to successfully complete my level 2 Fitness Instructor qualification and level 3 Personal Trainer qualification. Continuing to work within the sports industry for 10+ years as a Personal Trainer helping people set and achieve their lifestyle and fitness goals.
While working as a Personal Trainer I had the opportunity to get into management of sports facilities, while working at different health clubs. This included working on 5* luxury cruise ships traveling all over the world helping to educate and provide people with skills to improve their lifestyle. During my time in the sports industry I was also able to become self-employed.
Moving to Suffolk allowed me to try new career paths and in coming to Suffolk New College I was able to work as a Progress Tutor. This gave me the skills and knowledge to complete my Certificate in Education with the University of Suffolk.
Contact Details:
If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to get in touch either on Mattoldfield@suffolk.ac.uk or 01473 382480
Ben Norfolk
Level 2 & Level 3 Lecturer of Sport. Link Tutor for Level 2 Sport.
Academic Background: BSc (Hons) Sport Coaching & Physical Education, PGCE & QTLS
Industry background: Worked in the fitness industry for 10 years. Personal Trainer & Fitness Manager. Coaching in Primary Schools.
Contact: bennorfolk@suffolk.ac.uk
Sam Burman
Lecturer in Sport and Sport & Exercise Science.
Link Tutor for the Football Studies Programme.
Football Lead at the College.
Academic Background:
I studied Level Three Sport here at Suffolk New College where I achieved triple distinction. I then went onto the University of Northampton, where I studied a Bachelor of Arts in Sport Development, leaving with a 2:1 honours degree. I then became a qualified teacher after completing my PGCE year at The University of Essex.
I have also successfully completed several coaching qualifications including Level Two in Football Coaching, Level Three in Higher Sports Leadership, Level Two in Community Sports Leadership, Level Two in Cricket Coaching and Level One in Facilitating Fitness Training.
Industry Background:
I currently coach at Leiston Football Club where I have worked with the senior team, u18’s and youth age groups ranging from the u13’s to u16’s. I have experience in coaching a range of other sports too, this includes cricket which is another passion of mine. My last employment, for two years, was at a local organisation where I headed up the sports department and apprenticeship programme. Our work was centred around providing young people with positive experiences in sport and physical education.
Contact Details:
If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to get in touch either on samburman@suffolk.ac.uk or 01473 382470
The rigorous academic programme within Needham Market Academy is equivalent to 3 A-Levels compared to other providers who offer a smaller, less recognised qualification. The qualifications cover a wide spectrum of units and are sports generic to provide an insight into key areas of the sports industry including sports development, performance analysis, nutrition and coaching.
University of Lincoln
University of Suffolk
Suffolk School Games
Needham Market FC
Woodbridge Warriors RFC
DidiRugby (Picture below)
FutureStars