Placement overview
Name: Jimmy
Vocational area: Rugby
Duration: 2 weeks
Location: Perpignan, France
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"I am the playmaker so strategy is always key for me. French rugby is more technical than British rugby so it was the perfect place for me to develop my knowledge."
The motivation
I was offered the placement as part of my course; I would get to learn a new way of playing rugby whilst spending time in the South of France.
It was one of the reasons why I applied for the course. Coming from a working class background, it was not always possible to have an opportunity like this. It was an experience of a lifetime!
The placement
I was coached at the local training grounds which broadened my horizons.
I am the playmaker so strategy is always key for me. French rugby is more technical than British rugby, so it was a perfect place for me to develop my knowledge.
The location
Our group met the USA Perpignan rugby team at the local stadium. It was a privilege to speak face to face with professional players, who were all really friendly and spoke English with us, whilst we explained what we were doing on our placements. We had been cheering for the players throughout the match as we felt like part of Perpignan.
We had French lessons every other day with the host organisation which allowed me to build on my GCSE knowledge. Once a local girl sat next to me on the bus and began speaking to me in basic French and I was so happy that I could actually respond to her!
The impact
I am the team captain and this placement has had a big impact on my team. My players have a much closer relationship with each other now after living with each other for 2 weeks, and learning a new approach to rugby.
I had not spoken much to two of my team members before sharing a room with them but now we are close friends. Our team has been more successful in our performance this year thanks to our placement in Perpignan!
I have greatly developed my confidence and communication skills. A year ago I could not have spoken to a stranger openly but I spent weeks abroad getting around a foreign city on local transport.
Now I want to go and study at University. I aim to finish my college course and am already attending university open days to view their sports and coaching courses.
Outcomes
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Improved language skills
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Exposure to cultural experience
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Confidence building
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Improved people skills
Collaboration and partnership is at the heart of what we do.
If you would like to find out more about the way we work, get in touch.
