At a Glance
- Tasks: Evaluate the #ifyougoigo campaign and assess its impact on teenage girls' health and well-being.
- Company: Collaborative project with Torfaen County Borough Council and Swansea University.
- Benefits: Gain hands-on experience, mentorship, and contribute to community health initiatives.
- Other info: Opportunity to work in a dynamic environment with potential for future career growth.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in empowering teenage girls to be more active and healthy.
- Qualifications: Passion for sport, research skills, and a desire to challenge stereotypes.
The predicted salary is between 30000 - 40000 € per year.
This MSc by Research project presents a unique opportunity for an individual to be embedded within a Local Authority (LA) to evaluate their #ifyougoigo campaign. The candidate will work closely with practitioners and service providers at Torfaen County Borough Council, researchers at the Welsh Institute of Physical Activity, Health and Sport (WIPAHS), and teenage girls attending the #ifyougoigo sessions, to conduct an in-depth evaluation of the programme.
The #ifyougoigo campaign aims to get more teenage girls, more active, more often throughout the Torfaen LA. As part of this campaign, the Sports Development Team work in partnership with Torfaen Leisure Trust to run a physical activity programme for girls aged 13–18 years. The free, 10-week #ifyougoigo programme allows participants to take part in weekly group sessions and receive personalised 1-1 support, mentoring, and guidance targeted towards the long-term adoption of a healthier lifestyle. Girls on the programme also access Torfaen Leisure Trust classes and gyms and are supported to connect with local community sports clubs.
The physical and mental health benefits of physical activity are well-established; however, low levels of physical activity, particularly among adolescent girls, persist. The Behaviour Change Wheel (Michie et al., 2011) highlights that behaviour is likely to be influenced by multiple factors, namely interactions between an individual’s Capability, Opportunity and Motivation (COM-B model). #ifyougoigo aims to remove practical barriers and work to change how girls feel and think about physical activity, exercise, and sport. Evidence and insight show that girls are far more likely to participate in physical activity if they have someone to go with them. This principle of peer support/companionship, along with the provision of a person-centred approach within a socially inclusive, professionally supported environment, is core to the design of the campaign.
The key aims of this MSc project are to:
- Identify opportunities to streamline and develop a tailored package of data collection and evaluation measures that consider both the short- and long-term impact on the physical, mental, and overall health and well-being of teenage girls, and the potential economic impact and social return on investment.
- Conduct a comprehensive independent evaluation of the programme, including, but not limited to, the production of a final report and recommendations for the future.
The successful candidate will work collaboratively with the Torfaen Sports Development team and be based between their Pontypool site and WIPAHS, with a base at the Sport and Exercise Sciences Department, Swansea University. They will be responsible for collecting data via a variety of methods (both qualitative and quantitative) that assess the effects of the programme on the physical, mental, and overall health and well-being of teenage girls participating in #ifyougoigo and will ultimately oversee a comprehensive evaluation of the programme.
Applications may be submitted in Welsh and any application submitted in Welsh will be treated no less favourably than an application submitted in English. Please refer to the University’s Welsh Language Policy on Awarding Grants.
PhD Studentship: Sport and Exercise Science: #ifyougoigo: Challenging stereotypes and barriers [...] in Swansea employer: Swansea University
As a PhD student embedded within Torfaen County Borough Council, you will be part of a dynamic and supportive work culture that prioritises collaboration and community impact. This role offers unique opportunities for professional growth through hands-on experience in evaluating innovative health initiatives, while also contributing to the empowerment of teenage girls in the local area. With access to resources from the Welsh Institute of Physical Activity, Health and Sport, you will be well-equipped to make a meaningful difference in promoting active lifestyles.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land PhD Studentship: Sport and Exercise Science: #ifyougoigo: Challenging stereotypes and barriers [...] in Swansea
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to people in the field of Sport and Exercise Science, especially those connected to local authorities or community programmes. Attend events, join online forums, and don’t be shy about asking for informational interviews. You never know who might have the inside scoop on opportunities!
✨Tip Number 2
Get involved with relevant projects or volunteer opportunities. This not only boosts your CV but also shows your commitment to the cause. Plus, it’s a great way to meet potential collaborators and mentors who can help you land that PhD studentship.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for interviews by researching the #ifyougoigo campaign and understanding its impact. Be ready to discuss how your skills and experiences align with their goals. Show them you’re passionate about making a difference in the lives of teenage girls through sport and exercise!
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen. Plus, we love seeing candidates who are proactive and engaged with our platform. So, get your application in and let’s make a difference together!
We think you need these skills to ace PhD Studentship: Sport and Exercise Science: #ifyougoigo: Challenging stereotypes and barriers [...] in Swansea
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion:Let us see your enthusiasm for sport and exercise science! Share why this project excites you and how it aligns with your career goals. A personal touch can really make your application stand out.
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV highlights relevant experience, especially any work with teenage girls or community projects. We want to see how your background fits with the #ifyougoigo campaign and its aims.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to tell us your story. Explain how your skills and experiences make you the perfect fit for this role. Be specific about what you can bring to the team at Torfaen County Borough Council.
Apply Through Our Website:Don’t forget to submit your application through our website! It’s the easiest way for us to keep track of your application and ensure it gets the attention it deserves.
How to prepare for a job interview at Swansea University
✨Know the Campaign Inside Out
Before your interview, make sure you thoroughly understand the #ifyougoigo campaign. Familiarise yourself with its goals, target audience, and the challenges it aims to address. This will not only show your genuine interest but also help you articulate how your skills can contribute to the project's success.
✨Prepare Relevant Questions
Think of insightful questions to ask during the interview. Inquire about the collaboration with Torfaen County Borough Council or the specific evaluation methods they expect you to use. This demonstrates your proactive approach and eagerness to engage with the team and the project.
✨Showcase Your Research Skills
Since this role involves data collection and evaluation, be ready to discuss your research experience. Highlight any relevant projects where you've used qualitative and quantitative methods, and explain how you can apply these skills to assess the impact of the #ifyougoigo programme effectively.
✨Emphasise Team Collaboration
This position requires working closely with various stakeholders, so it's crucial to showcase your teamwork abilities. Share examples of past collaborations, especially in a research or community setting, and explain how you can foster positive relationships with practitioners and participants alike.
