In their final year of the BSc Sport Management and Coaching degree, students at the University of Bath were tasked with producing short films tackling sensitive issues, and using sport as a tool for social transformation.

The challenge, supported by ConnectSport CIC, required students to engage with the public and explore the lived experiences of those directly affected by these issues. The result was a compelling series of three-minute documentary films advocating for positive change through sport, addressing topics such as serious youth violence and crime, parental pressure, mental health, and gambling.

David Hodgson who worked on ‘Men, Mental Health and Sport – A collaboration with Bath City FC’, explained: “It was a great learning experience, allowing us to be creative and offering freedom in how we approached the project. Collaborating with professional companies was a highlight. I believe these films will raise awareness of the issues we tackled, and that was our ultimate goal.”

CREATIVITY

Professor Emma Rich, who leads the course, praised the students. She said: “Their creativity and commitment were exceptional. By collaborating with local organisations and communities, they created impactful films addressing critical social challenges. This project enhanced students’ public engagement skills while showcasing the power of creative storytelling to inspire meaningful change.” 

She thanked key contributors, including guest lecturer Simon Lansley of ConnectSport, Phil Chamberlain from the Tobacco Control and Research Group, and the University’s academic and digital skills team, for their guidance in filmmaking, copyright, and editing.

Simon Lansley, the founder and managing director of ConnectSport CIC, added: “At ConnectSport, we work with a growing cohort of students based at numerous Universities to produce compelling written, video and audio content which demonstrates how sport and physical activity are being used every day across the UK to tackle inequalities, improve lives and strengthen communities. We’re proud to have played a small role in supporting the students at the University of Bath who have produced these short but impactful films.”

Emily Salvidge, Business and Partnerships Development Manager, who helped set up the collaborations, added: “It is so valuable for students to engage direct with partners. Organisations have been impressed by the high standard of work and professionalism shown. Many plan to use these films on their own platforms, demonstrating the real-world impact of this project.” 

INSIGHTS

Emily Richards, Head of Strategic Engagement in the Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences, said: “Many of our partners are small grassroots organisations without the resources to produce this type of content. These collaborations have not only benefitted students but also given organisations fresh insights and ideas.

“This initiative required students to develop entirely new skills, supported by tutorials and short guides on production, sound, and editing from the university’s digital team. The films will live beyond the classroom.”

Participating organisations included Bath City Football Club, Bath Rugby and Pads on a Roll and Steel Warriors. Niamh D’Arcy, UK Head of Sales and Growth at Pads on a Roll, said: “Working with University of Bath students has been a highlight for us. Their enthusiasm, creativity, and professionalism were remarkable. The film they delivered was exceptional, bringing our mission to life in a way that was deeply moving and perfectly aligned with our values. We are immensely proud to have partnered us with such talented individuals.”

To view the films, click here.

To find out more contact hello@connectsport.co.uk

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