ACTIVE CAMPUS
1. What is Active Campus?
Active Campus is UEA Sport’s recreational program designed to help students and staff stay active through fun, informal, and social activities. It’s all about getting involved without the pressure of competition or long-term commitment. Unlike Performance Sport, which focuses on elite athletes, or Sports Clubs that offer regular training and matches, Active Campus offers relaxed options like drop-in sports, group exercise classes, Adventure Afternoons, and Navigate Norfolk trips—perfect for anyone looking to stay active in a flexible and fun way.
2. Do I need a membership to join Active Campus activities?
No membership is needed! Active Campus is open to all UEA students and staff—just turn up and get involved.
3. What kinds of activities are part of Active Campus?
Active Campus offers something for everyone, including:
- Adventure Afternoons – Fun trips like roller discos, Go Ape, and more.
- Navigate Norfolk – Day trips exploring Norfolk’s best spots like beaches, gardens, and national trusts.
- Ziggurat Challenge – Schools compete in fun, casual games like sitting volleyball.
- Wellbeing Dog Walks – Relaxing walks with friendly dogs to boost your mood and get moving.
- Drop-in Sports – No booking required—just turn up and play.
- Group Exercise Classes – From yoga to dance, there’s plenty to try.
- Social Leagues & Tournaments – Friendly competitions for all skill levels.
4. How do I sign up for activities like Adventure Afternoons or Navigate Norfolk?
Book tickets for Adventure Afternoons and Navigate Norfolk on the UEA SU website. For casual activities like drop-in sports or Wellbeing Dog Walks, no booking is needed—just show up and join in.
5. How much do Active Campus events cost?
We aim to keep everything affordable:
- Navigate Norfolk & Adventure Afternoons – £5 (includes transport and activity).
- Wellbeing Dog Walks – £3.
- Drop-in Classes – £1–£2.
- Off-Peak Swim Cards – £1.
6. What is the Free Bike Hire Scheme?
The Free Bike Hire Scheme lets you borrow an entry-level single-speed town bike (with helmet, lights, and a D-lock) for up to two weeks—perfect for getting around campus or exploring Norwich. Complete this form to request a bike.
7. What is UEA MOVES+?
UEA MOVES+ is a free app that tracks your walking, running, cycling, and other physical activities, rewarding you with points you can redeem for prizes. It’s a great way to stay active and motivated.
8. Can I hire sports equipment through Active Campus?
Yes! The Equipment Hiring Hub allows students to borrow sports gear for free. Just fill out a form, and you’ll get a confirmation email with collection details from the Student Information Zone (SIZ). Available equipment includes:
- Sports and Games Gear – For a variety of activities.
- Cycling Equipment – Bikes, helmets, rechargeable lights, and locks.
- Fitness Resources – Workout cards, foam rollers, and more.
You can borrow equipment for up to two weeks, and extensions may be possible depending on demand.
9. Are there programs for walking, running, or cycling?
Absolutely! There are plenty of options to help you stay active outdoors:
- Walking: Explore the Waymarked Campus Trails or join Navigate Norfolk trips.
- Running: Take part in the Colney Lane parkrun or run the campus trails.
- Cycling: Borrow a bike through the Free Bike Hire Scheme. Join cycling workshops and confidence training (starting September 2024). Use the on-campus Dr Bike service for free minor repairs and bike maintenance. Plan safe routes with CycleStreets or hop on a Beryl Bike around Norwich.
10. Who can I contact if I need accessibility support for an activity?
The uea+sport team is here to help with any accessibility needs. Email studentsport@uea.ac.uk, and they’ll assist you in making activities accessible and enjoyable.
SPORT CLUBS
1. What are UEA Sport Clubs?
UEA Sport Clubs are a great way to get involved at UEA, offering opportunities to meet new people, try new sports, and develop skills in a fun and supportive environment. With 56 clubs and over 5,000 members, there’s something for everyone—whether you’re an experienced athlete or a complete beginner. Each club is run by a student committee, supported by uea+sport and the UEA SU.
2. How do I join a Sport Club?
You can join a club at Freshers’ Fair, during taster sessions, or anytime throughout the year via the UEA SU website. Many clubs offer free taster sessions so you can try before you commit.
3. Do I need a membership to join a Sport Club?
Yes, to join any Sport Club, you’ll need to purchase a UEA Sport+ Membership. This is a one-time fee per academic year that covers access to all sports clubs.
- Full-Year Membership: £55 (valid until 31st July 2025)
- Half-Year Membership: £30 (available from January 2025 or for eligible one-semester students)
You only need to buy the UEA Sport+ Membership once, no matter how many clubs you join.
4. What does the UEA Sport+ Membership cover?
The UEA Sport+ Membership helps cover costs associated with running sports clubs, including:
- Coaching and training courses
- Travel to competitions and trips
- Competition entry fees and accommodation
- Affiliation fees
- First aid and insurance
- Referee and umpire costs
- External facility hire and equipment storage
- Equipment purchase and maintenance
- Kit and other essential club expenses
5. Are there additional costs for joining Sport Clubs?
Yes, in addition to the UEA Sport+ Membership fee, most clubs charge a club-specific membership fee to cover training, equipment, coaching, and competition costs. Prices vary depending on the sport and the level of involvement. Clubs with higher fees often include specialized coaching, equipment, and external facility costs. You can find specific pricing for each club on the UEA SU website when signing up.
6. Are Sport Clubs beginner-friendly?
Absolutely! All clubs welcome members of all abilities, from complete beginners to experienced players. Many clubs offer beginner sessions and coaching to help you get started.
7. When and where do Sport Clubs train?
Training schedules vary by club, with over 3,400 sessions held annually at the Sportspark or off-campus facilities. Check the UEA SU website or contact the club directly for specific training times.
8. Can I compete in university or local leagues?
Yes! Many clubs compete in BUCS (British Universities and Colleges Sport) leagues, local leagues, and tournaments. UEA clubs take part in over 600 local league fixtures each year, offering plenty of opportunities to compete.
9. Are there social events within Sport Clubs?
Definitely! Sport Clubs are a great way to make friends and have fun. Many clubs host regular socials, charity events, and trips throughout the year.
10. I have accessibility needs. Can I still join a Sport Club?
Yes! uea+sport is committed to making clubs inclusive. If you have accessibility requirements, email studentsport@uea.ac.uk, and the team will liaise with the club to ensure activities are adapted to your needs.
11. Can I join more than one Sport Club?
Yes! You can join as many clubs as you like. Your UEA Sport+ Membership covers access to all clubs, so you only need to pay club-specific fees for each club you join.
12. Do I need my own equipment to join a club?
Most clubs provide essential equipment for taster sessions and beginners. For regular training and competitions, you may need personal kit, but many clubs have equipment you can borrow when you start.
13. Who do I contact if I have more questions?
For general questions about Sport Clubs, email studentsport@uea.ac.uk or contact specific clubs through the UEA SU website. Club committees and uea+sport staff are happy to help!
PERFORMANCE
1. What is Performance Sport at UEA?
Performance Sport at UEA is dedicated to supporting talented student-athletes in excelling both academically and athletically. The program offers comprehensive support, including scholarships, tailored training, and access to world-class facilities, enabling athletes to compete at Regional, National, European, and World levels while pursuing their studies. Athletes benefit from specialized services such as strength and conditioning coaching, physiotherapy, nutritional guidance, and performance analysis to help them reach their full potential on and off the field.
2. What support does UEA offer to Performance Sport athletes?
UEA offers a wide range of support services to Performance Sport athletes, including:
- Gym and swim membership
- Strength and conditioning programs
- Physiotherapy support
- Video analysis sessions
- Discounted sports massage
- Nutritional guidance
- Lifestyle and personal development support
- Access to performance workshops and resources
- Academic flexibility for dual-career athletes
Athletes also get free access to the Sportspark’s facilities, including the athletics track, Olympic-sized pool, cycling studio, and state-of-the-art gym.
3. What are the different scholarship levels available?
UEA offers three levels of individual sports scholarships based on athletic achievement and potential:
- Developing Excellence
- Excellence
- Elite
All levels include access to performance support services, but the Excellence and Elite scholarships also offer cash bursaries:
- Excellence Scholarship: £500 bursary
- Elite Scholarship: £1,500 bursary
Scholarships are available to athletes competing at Regional, National, or International levels, as well as those on the TASS (Talented Athlete Scholarship Scheme).
4. Are there additional bursary opportunities?
Yes! UEA offers additional bursary packages in partnership with local clubs, allowing successful applicants to receive up to £3,000 in cash support per academic year. Current partner bursaries include:
- Norwich City FC Women’s Bursary
- North Walsham RFC Bursary
- City of Norwich Swimming Club Bursary
These bursaries can be combined with individual scholarships for maximum support.
5. What is the TASS (Talented Athlete Scholarship Scheme) at UEA?
UEA is a TASS Delivery Site with dual-career accreditation, supporting student-athletes in balancing their academic and sporting commitments. TASS athletes benefit from tailored support, including academic flexibility, strength and conditioning, physiotherapy, and lifestyle guidance.
6. What is the Focus Sport Program?
The Focus Sport Program provides enhanced support to UEA’s top-performing team sports. Current Focus Sports include:
- Men’s & Women’s Basketball
- Men’s & Women’s Football
- Women’s Netball
- Men’s & Women’s Rugby
Athletes in these programs receive tailored strength and conditioning, physiotherapy, video analysis, and sport psychology support, along with free access to Sportspark facilities.
7. What other team sports receive performance support?
In addition to Focus Sports, UEA provides bespoke support to other high-performing teams, including:
- Men’s Hockey
- American Football
- Swimming and Water Polo
These teams benefit from similar support packages, including strength and conditioning, physiotherapy, and performance analysis.
8. Can individual athletes in non-focus sports apply for scholarships?
Yes! UEA welcomes scholarship applications from athletes in a wide range of sports, including those listed in Sport England’s recognized sports. If you’re unsure whether your sport is eligible, email performance.sport@uea.ac.uk for guidance.
9. How do I apply for a UEA Sport Scholarship?
You can apply for a UEA Sport Scholarship online. Applications typically open ahead of the academic year, and selection is based on athletic achievement, potential, and alignment with UEA’s performance objectives. Visit UEA Sport Scholarships for more details.
10. When do individual scholarship applications open?
Individual scholarship applications open from March 2025 and close on May 11, 2025. This is the main application window and offers the best chance of securing a scholarship.
A second application window will reopen on July 1, 2025, for students applying through clearing, with applications closing on August 31, 2025. However, scholarship opportunities during this period are limited, so applying during the initial window is highly recommended.
11. What facilities are available to Performance Sport athletes?
UEA’s Sportspark offers world-class facilities, including:
- Olympic-sized swimming pool
- National-standard athletics track
- Fully equipped gym with 125+ stations
- Dedicated strength and conditioning zone
- Cycling studio and functional training area
- 40 acres of outdoor playing fields
- Multiple sports halls and floodlit pitches
Performance athletes receive free access to these facilities as part of their scholarship or support program.
12. What kind of academic flexibility is offered to performance athletes?
UEA understands the challenges of balancing sport and academics. Performance athletes, including TASS and scholarship recipients, benefit from academic flexibility, including:
- Consideration for assignment extensions
- Support with exam scheduling
- Open communication with academic departments
This allows athletes to manage their training and competition schedules alongside their studies.
13. How does UEA support the holistic development of athletes?
UEA takes a multi-disciplinary approach to athlete support, focusing on both sporting and personal development. Athletes receive:
- Lifestyle guidance
- Mental health and well-being support
- Nutritional advice
- Workshops on sleep, recovery, and performance psychology
The goal is to help athletes reach their full potential both on and off the field.
14. Can international students apply for scholarships?
Yes! UEA welcomes scholarship applications from international students who meet the athletic achievement criteria. All performance athletes, regardless of nationality, have access to the full range of support services.
15. Who do I contact for more information about Performance Sport?
For more information about Performance Sport, scholarships, or bursaries, contact performance.sport@uea.ac.uk. You can also visit the UEA Sport Performance page for further details
VOLUNTEER
1. What is the UEA+ Sports volunteering?
The UEA+ Sports Volunteering offers students exciting opportunities to get involved in UEA Sport programs and events. Whether you’re leading adventures, supporting major events, or promoting initiatives, volunteering with UEA Sport is a great way to gain valuable experience, develop leadership skills, and make a positive impact on the UEA community.
2. How can I get involved as a volunteer?
There are two main ways to volunteer with UEA Sport:
- Active Campus Ambassadors – Flexible, event-based roles where you can help out at fun and engaging activities like the Santa Run, Navigate Norfolk Day Trips, Ziggurat Challenge, Drop-In Sports, and the Move+ Rewards App.
- Specialist Volunteer Roles – More consistent positions with leadership and responsibility, including roles like Marketing Ambassadors, Student Coaches, and Sports Club Committee Members.
3. What does an Active Campus Ambassador do?
Active Campus Ambassadors are at the heart of UEA’s most exciting programs and events. As an ambassador, you can:
- Assist with ongoing programs such as Navigate Norfolk, Ziggurat Challenge, and Drop-In Sports
- Support one-off events like the Santa Run
- Promote healthy lifestyles through the Move+ Rewards App
This role is super flexible—you can choose which events you want to help with based on your availability. To join, just complete the Active Campus Ambassador application form and sign up for events through our Teams group chat when opportunities arise.
4. What are Specialist Volunteer Roles?
Specialist Volunteer Roles offer ongoing, leadership-focused opportunities where you can take on more responsibility. These include:
- Marketing Ambassador – Promote UEA Sport events and programs across campus and social media.
- Student Coach – Support and mentor a sports team throughout the season.
- Sports Club Committee Member – Help manage the day-to-day operations of a UEA Sport Club, from organizing events to handling club finances.
These roles are perfect if you’re looking to develop leadership, teamwork, and organizational skills.
5. Do volunteers receive any recognition or awards?
Yes! UEA Sport celebrates the hard work and dedication of its volunteers through several recognition programs, including:
- Volunteer of the Month – Recognizing outstanding contributions each month.
- Volunteer of the Year – Awarded annually to an exceptional volunteer.
- UEA Award – Gain formal recognition for your volunteering efforts, which can boost your CV.
- Awards + CPD – Access Continuing Professional Development (CPD) opportunities and workshops to further enhance your skills.
6. What skills can I gain from volunteering?
Volunteering with UEA Sport helps you develop valuable skills that look great on your CV, including:
- Leadership and teamwork
- Event planning and coordination
- Communication and marketing
- Coaching and mentoring
- Time management and organizational skills
You’ll also gain practical experience and make meaningful connections within the UEA community.
7. How much time do I need to commit?
Volunteering is super flexible! As an Active Campus Ambassador, you choose which events and activities to join. Specialist Volunteer Roles may require more regular commitment, but you’ll know what’s expected before applying.
8. How do I sign up to volunteer?
- Active Campus Ambassadors: Fill out the quick sign-up form and join our Teams group to get updates on upcoming events.
- Specialist Roles: Check the UEA Sport website for more details and application info.
9. Can my volunteering count towards the UEA Award?
Yes! All volunteering with UEA Sport can count towards the UEA Award, giving you formal recognition for your contributions.
10. Who can I contact if I have questions?
For any questions about volunteering, email our workforce and development administrator Sophia at workforce.dev@uea.ac.uk.
ABOUT US
1. What is UEA Sport?
UEA Sport is the home of all student sports and physical activity at the University of East Anglia. We offer a wide range of opportunities for students and staff to get active, whether through competitive sports clubs, recreational programs like Active Campus, or high-level Performance Sport programs. From fun drop-in sessions to elite athletic development, UEA Sport has something for everyone. Our mission is to promote health, well-being, and community through sport and physical activity, making it accessible and inclusive for all.
2. What’s the difference between UEA Sport and Sportspark?
UEA Sport focuses on student sport programs, clubs, events, and opportunities specifically for UEA students and staff. We manage recreational programs like Active Campus, competitive Sports Clubs, and elite Performance Sport programs, while also overseeing student volunteer opportunities.
Sportspark is a public sports facility on campus that offers a wide range of amenities, including an Olympic-sized swimming pool, fitness centre, climbing wall, and athletics track. It serves both UEA students and the wider Norwich community.
In short, UEA Sport runs programs and services tailored to students, while Sportspark provides the facilities that support those activities (and more) for both students and the public.
3. Who runs UEA Sport?
UEA Sport is run by a dedicated team of staff, performance experts, placement students, and student volunteers who work together to deliver a wide range of programs and opportunities.
Core Team – Manages the development and delivery of all UEA Sport programs, events, and opportunities for students and staff.
- Phil Steele – Director of Sport & Commercial Services
- Mark Heazle – Head of Sport and Physical Activity
- James Raywood – Student Sport Operations Manager
- Joe Skeet – Student Performance Sport Manager
- Lois Millican – Performance and Recruitment Coordinator
- Alice Parker, Evie Drennan & Anna Larkins – Student Sport and Physical Activity Development Coordinators
- Lucy Griffiths – Student Sport Administrator
- Bhargav Pawar – Student Sports and Sportspark Administrator (BUCS Lead)
- Chris Munday – Football Coordinator
- Sophia Castano – Workforce Development Administrator
- Olivia Hunt – Activities and Opportunities Officer
4. What does the Performance Team do?
Our Performance Team works with elite athletes and performance teams, providing tailored support to help student-athletes reach their potential. The team includes:
- Strength and Conditioning Coaches
- Physiotherapists
- Nutritionists
- Performance Analysts
This team supports scholarship athletes and high-performance teams through specialist programs, workshops, and one-on-one sessions.
5. Who are the Placement Students?
UEA Sport recruits placement students each year to gain experience working in sports management, marketing, coaching, and more. They play key roles in helping run UEA Sport’s programs, from promoting events to leading activities and supporting performance sport teams.
6. What does the Sports Exec do?
The Sports Exec is made up of student representatives who help support and advocate for UEA’s sports clubs. They organize events, attend meetings, and work closely with UEA Sport to ensure student voices are heard. Roles include:
- Inclusivity Sport Officer
- Sustainability in Sports Officer
- Events, Fundraising & Sponsorship Officer
- Sports Representatives for various clubs and facilities
7. What facilities does UEA Sport use?
UEA Sport has access to some of the best university sports facilities in the UK, including:
- Sportspark – Olympic-sized pool, fitness centre, athletics track, climbing wall, squash courts, sports halls, and more, and where the UEA Sport office is based.
- Colney Lane – Outdoor playing fields for football, rugby, lacrosse, cricket, and more.
- Whitlingham Boathouse – Home to UEA’s rowing club.
- Wroxham Broad – Sailing facilities.
- Bawburgh Golf Club – Home of the UEA Golf Club.
- Highball Climbing Centre – Additional climbing facilities.
- Norfolk Snowsports Club – For skiing and snowboarding.
- Christal Seas Scuba – Scuba diving training and excursions.
- Cambridge Ice Arena – Home to the UEA Ice Hockey & Figure Skating Club.
8. How does UEA Sport promote inclusivity?
UEA Sport is committed to making sport and physical activity accessible to everyone. Sportspark offers full accessibility with wheelchair access, induction loops, tactile surfaces, accessible changing areas, and a pool hoist. Club committee members receive welfare training, and we work closely with the Disability Support Network to enhance accessibility.
We run inclusive programs like the Inclusive Sports Club, Adaptive Cycling Sessions, SEND Gymnastics, and Climbing for All, ensuring everyone can participate. Our Active Campus activities, including the Ziggurat Challenge and Navigate Norfolk, are designed to be open and accessible. To support commuter students, we provide SmartShare carpooling, Commuter Breakfasts, and study spaces like Space to Create. We also focus on breaking barriers for women in sport by offering free period products, hosting the ‘Being a Female Athlete’ workshop, and running events like This Girl Can UV Zumba.
9. How does UEA Sport support sustainability?
UEA Sport is dedicated to promoting sustainability through impactful initiatives and student-led projects. Using the UEA+MOVES app and various club initiatives, we’ve funded over 3,900 trees, avoided 26 tCO2e emissions, removed 22 tCO2e, and restored 166m² of habitat. We also encourage eco-friendly travel through schemes like the Free Bike Hire Scheme and the Cycle2Work program. Cycle2Work allows UEA staff to purchase bikes and safety equipment tax-free, saving money while promoting sustainable commuting. Our Sustainability in Sport Working Group continues to lead projects such as kit swaps, equipment recycling, and carbon literacy training, helping reduce our environmental impact and promote greener living within the UEA Sport community.
10. How do I contact UEA Sport?
For general inquiries, email studentsport@uea.ac.uk.
For specific questions, you can also reach out directly to members of our team (listed above) or contact us through the UEA Sport social media pages.
We’re here to help you make the most of your time at UEA—whether you’re joining a club, competing in performance sport, or just looking to stay active and meet new people!