Lauren Mangan

Sport, Coaching and Physical Education

“I was able to see elite coaching in action and had the chance to carry out my own research.”

I really enjoyed the sociological based modules, where talented lecturers were able to push the whole group to think deeper and gain a real understanding of the subject area. I also had a great placement at the Oxford University rowing club; I was able to see elite coaching in action and had the chance to carry out my own research.

Living in Oxford was fantastic. It’s such a student focused city; there were endless places to eat out, go for a drink, or party. I was also part of the university lacrosse team which meant lots of weekly socials. Being captain was a privilege and receiving so much support from the university made the experience so enjoyable.

I left university and immediately got an opportunity to work in Stockholm, Sweden, as a supply teacher in a school. I also undertook some sport development work. After I left Sweden I got a job in Reading, working with a children’s weight management charity. Now I work as a Community Sport Manager for GLL; developing and enhancing new sport programmes, working with national partners, including a 6 month placement with Sport Relief, and developing my management skills. For the future I see an on-going career in sport development.