Universities across the country have introduced inclusive participation programmes over the past decade and the result has been a major increase in student engagement in sport at university.

At Canterbury Christ Church University, our inclusive Active Campus programme is designed to engage with students who wouldn’t involve themselves in the traditional sports clubs. The sessions tackle barriers such as commuting, no interest in competing and students being unable to commit due to study, work or placements.

According to the BUCS National Student Survey, 93.5% of students agreed that being involved in sport gave them a sense of belonging to their institution and its community. That’s what Active Campus is about.

It provides a laid back space for students to escape for the day, improving both their mental and physical health without any pressure of competition.

There is also the financial factor. Universities across the country either host these sessions for free or at a very affordable price, for example Active Campus at CCCU is just £2 a session. Eliminating the barrier of cost increases the chances of more students participating in sports sessions.

By targeting barriers like cost, commitment and time, CCCU is successfully reaching students who may be uninterested in sports clubs or gym and fitness classes but benefit from laid back, inclusive sessions designed for beginners.

I believe the future of University sport will see an increase in resource in participation programmes to help shape student experience. If universities want increased participation and activity, then it really is the taking part that counts.