To alumna Katie Holland, pursuing her love for sports at the University of Bath was a ‘no-brainer’. With its world-class sports education programmes and facilities, as well as the city’s charm, Katie truly made the most of her time here – both inside and out of the lecture hall.
After an influential placement year, Katie has gone on to build a career working to break down the barriers that prevent people from accessing sport and ensuring they have the same opportunities to participate, learn and grow as anyone else.
Read on for Katie’s full story.
Why did you choose to study at Bath Uni?
Growing up, I was always told stories about how beautiful Bath was. My dad and granddad absolutely loved the city – it was their favourite place and they’d often reminisce about their visits. The more they spoke about it, the more I wanted to explore it for myself and create my own memories to share with them. So, when it came time to decide where to study, Bath seemed like the obvious choice.
Alongside the city's charm, I’ve always had a passion for sport, and the University’s sports offerings were second to none. I wasn’t entirely sure which career path I wanted to pursue at the time, but I knew I wanted to be involved in sport in some capacity. The sport and social science degree [now offered as BSc Sport Management and Coaching] was perfect because it offered flexibility, covering areas such as sport development, psychology, coaching and so much more. The opportunity to learn from industry leaders and gain hands-on experience through placements was a huge bonus. Given Bath's excellent reputation, especially in sport, it was a no-brainer for me to apply.
Can you tell us about your experience of studying here?
My time at Bath was a truly special chapter in my life. The atmosphere on campus was always buzzing with energy, and there was never a dull moment. Whether it was sports events, social activities or guest lectures, there were endless opportunities to get involved. What I loved most was that everything was right there on campus – the library, sports facilities and student union – which made life so much easier and more convenient.
When it came to spending time outside of lectures, Victoria Park and the Royal Crescent were some of my favourite spots in the city. I loved walking through these areas, particularly in the summer when everything was lush and vibrant. It was a perfect place to relax and take in the beauty of Bath.
As a competitive swimmer, the University’s swimming pool became my sanctuary. I had grown up in a small village where the local pool was only 25 meters, so to have access to a world-class 50m pool was a dream come true. The pool was incredible and knowing that elite athletes trained there too made it even more exciting. I felt so fortunate to be able to train in such an inspiring environment.
Another highlight of my time at Bath was the Student Union (SU). It was always buzzing with students, and it provided a brilliant way to meet new people and socialise. The atmosphere there was fantastic – it really felt like a community.
Can you tell us about your placement experience?
One of the best decisions I made at Bath was choosing to take a placement year. It was during this year that I truly began to solidify my passion for sport development and the impact sport can have on underrepresented communities.
I worked as a disability development officer with Access Sport, a charity dedicated to providing accessible sports opportunities for young people with disabilities. This experience opened my eyes to the profound difference that sport can make in the lives of individuals who might otherwise be excluded.
Professionally, the placement year was invaluable. It gave me the opportunity to apply my academic knowledge to real-world challenges, helping me bridge the gap between theory and practice. I was involved in creating and delivering inclusive sports programmes – engaging with local communities and building partnerships with organisations that shared the same mission. It was incredibly rewarding to see firsthand how sport could empower young people, build their self-esteem and help them overcome personal and societal barriers.
This experience didn’t just solidify my desire to work in sport development, it fuelled my commitment to advocate for underrepresented groups. I saw how much sport could change lives – from offering a sense of belonging to boosting mental health – and it made me even more passionate about breaking down barriers to ensure everyone has the opportunity to participate.
How did the studies help you develop personally/or professionally
Today, my work is centred on empowering young people through sport, particularly those from underrepresented or disadvantaged backgrounds. The confidence I gained at Bath, combined with the knowledge and practical experience I’ve acquired, allows me to approach my work with a sense of purpose and conviction. Every day, I strive to break down the barriers that prevent people from accessing sport and ensure they have the same opportunities to participate, learn and grow as anyone else.
My studies at the University of Bath played a crucial role in shaping both my personal and professional growth. The rigorous academic programme in sport and social science boosted my confidence by deepening my knowledge of sport development, particularly in areas like inclusivity and accessibility. The practical experience gained through my placement year with Access Sport further solidified my passion for empowering underrepresented communities. I learned how sport can break down barriers and transform lives, and this experience ignited my commitment to ensuring everyone has the opportunity to participate and thrive in sport.
Describe your career since graduating.
Today, my work is centred on empowering young people through sport, particularly those from underrepresented or disadvantaged backgrounds. 
Since graduating, my career journey has been both rewarding and fulfilling. I began as a Wicketz development officer at Devon Cricket in Plymouth, where I used cricket to provide community-based opportunities for young people in areas of deprivation, helping them develop confidence, leadership and independence. After four years, I transitioned to the role of Wicketz programme manager at Lord's Taverners, focusing on female engagement.
Every day, I strive to break down the barriers that prevent people from accessing sport and ensure they have the same opportunities to participate, learn and grow as anyone else.
Now, I manage nine Wicketz projects across the UK, overseeing the delivery of the programme and ensuring it meets the organisation’s charitable outcomes. I support and manage a team of development officers, help build partnerships, develop participant pathways and create impactful workshops.
A typical day varies – one day I might be working closely with officers on the ground, the next I could be researching best practices for female engagement, handling finances or planning events. The variety keeps me engaged and I’m grateful to have progressed from a development officer to programme manager, leading projects that truly make a difference in young people’s lives
What advice would you give prospective students thinking about studying at bath?
My advice to prospective students thinking about studying at Bath would be to take part in every opportunity that comes your way. Whether it’s joining clubs, attending events, or getting involved in projects, fully immerse yourself in university life.
Bath offers so much both academically and socially, so make the most of it. Push yourself outside your comfort zone, try new things and embrace the vibrant community.
The more you engage, the more you'll learn – not just in the classroom, but about yourself and your passions. It’s a place that really encourages personal and professional growth, so dive in and make the most of your time there.
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