Speed-dating to support bursary

Tourism and event management undergraduates planned and hosted various events including speed-dating as part of their studies.

They had to critically review the costs and benefits of a fundraising event, keeping it small-scale and at no financial cost to the students.

Senior lecturer Dr Nazia Ali said: “Through this assignment the students learn practical skills that are essential for employabiilty and future work. Students learned about project management, negotiation, fundraising and dealing with possible pitfalls in a real life scenario.”

Other events included a Zumba Class, ‘Take Me Out’ type show, games tournament and a football tournament.

Last year, students raised £194 for the Steven Henly Award and this year the students are hoping to double the figure.

The Steven Henly Award for Outstanding Commitment is one of the bursaries offered at the University, in memory of student Steven Henly who died of a rare form of cancer in July 2008, a few weeks after his 21st birthday.

He developed the cancer during the second year of his BA Physical Education (QTS) course and died before completing it, but he was awarded a posthumous Diploma of Higher Education.

As a tribute his parents have established an annual cash prize at the University, which is given to a third-year student who demonstrates the same sort of commitment and dedication to sport shown by Steven.