University of Worcester in new partnership to launch global initiative

The Physical Education/Sport Teacher Training Centre has been set up with the aim of delivering inclusive education around the world.

The University of Worcester has already a gained a global reputation as one of the largest universities for teacher education, championing inclusive education.

In recent years, the university's work has included active partnerships in China, Japan, Turkey, the United States and Europe. Meanwhile, Worcester students, staff and graduates have participated as Paralympians at the games in Beijing, London and Rio de Janeiro.

In 2015, the university also became the first to host the European Wheelchair Basketball Championships, with the finals played at the University of Worcester Arena, the UK’s first indoor arena purpose-designed for the wheelchair athlete.

WAoS is considered a global leader in providing certified training solutions to the sports industry. Its Athlete Friendly Education centres support student-athletes in combining both their sporting and academic careers.

Professor David Green the university's vice chancellor and chief executive and Mick Donovan, the university's head of sport and inclusive education, recently met with IPC chief executive, Xavier Gonzalez, and WAoS managing director, Chris Solly during the 2018 PyeongChang Paralympic Winter Games, as part of the development process of the centre.

Professor Green said: “Staff and students are passionately committed to ensuring everyone, regardless of ability, impairment, gender, race or age, has access to opportunities.

"This commitment, over many years, has made the university into a world leader in inclusion.

"We are delighted to have this wonderful opportunity to share our passion, professionalism and expertise with educators around the world.

"Our aim is inclusion for all.”

Mr Solly added: "This new centre is a logical step forward.

"This new partnership will help us to provide such opportunities."