The Edinburgh Award is a programme that students can undertake alongside their involvement in sport and physical activity, and their academic studies. The Award aims to recognise student involvement in these activities and enhance their experience while studying at UoE.
We know that many students are involved in activities alongside their studies such as volunteering, part-time work, and getting involved in the University community. To help you use these activities to stand out from the crowd, the University has established the Edinburgh Award - a programme that wraps around these activities and allows you to get official recognition for your involvement while helping you get the most out of your experiences. Regardless of what profession you choose to join into after your degree, employers want university graduates who are ready for work. They will be investing in you and they want to know they will get a return on that investment.
Employers seek graduates who:
- are self-aware
- capitalise on their strengths
- will have impact wherever they work
- are committed to personal development and life-long learning
- can confidently provide evidence for these claims
And that's where the Edinburgh Award comes in.
Edinburgh Award through the Sports Union
By undertaking the Edinburgh Award through the Sports Union students have the opportunity to participate alongside fellow club volunteers, as well as the wider Edinburgh Award community.
The Sports Union offers two levels of the Award:
Leadership
This is for anyone who is currently in a committee position with one of the SU's member clubs or IM teams, or any club member who identifies as having a protected characteristic or is from a Widening Participation background. Through the programme you will challenge yourself to understand your strengths and areas for development. There will be an opportunity to receive training in Mentoring and Managing Difficult Conversations, to assist you in your role as a club volunteer and get the most out of the experience.
The opening session will be held on Tuesday 21st October 5.30pm-7.00pm.
Please sign up via this link. Sign Ups close at 12pm on the 8th October 2025.
Coaching
For any student currently registered as a coach within an SU club. This option will provide a supportive learning environment for club coaches and help develop their coaching style and ability. This course will include a 2-part Sport Psychology programme delivered by Sport & Exercise.
The opening session will be held on Wednesday 22nd October 5.30pm-7.00pm.
Please sign up via this link. Sign Ups close at 12pm on the 8th October 2025.
Contact Jo Foster for more information.
The Sports Union versions of the Edinburgh Award are supported by add-victor, the careers platform for high-achieving individuals.
