Michael, Royal Navy

BSc (Hons) Physical Activity, Exercise and Health, 2008

Michael has been a military physical trainer in the Royal Navy for over 17 years. Despite an already successful career under his belt, Michael wanted to push himself further and so in 2003 he took a leap back into education as a mature student on our BSc Physical Activity, Exercise and Health.

Q. What are your memories of studying at Wolverhampton?

"When I left school at 16 I had achieved my O Levels but I never had any aspiration to take further study. I doubted my ability if I’m honest. Fast forward 17 years and I found myself studying in a large diverse forum as one of the more senior students, and absolutely loving the experience.”

Q. What made you decide to study Physical Activity Exercise and Health?

“With my career in the Royal Navy, this course was the natural choice that complemented my experience and would help me to enhance the knowledge I had gained from years of working as a military physical trainer.”

Q. What are your day-to-day activities within your role?

"I am the Chief Instructor of the Royal Navy Physical Training School and am responsible for ensuring the design and smooth delivery of all the PT courses.”

Q. What made you decide to join the Royal Navy?

“That’s the million dollar question! I guess I wanted to see the world and experience things that I would never do if I worked in a factory etc. I certainly have managed to do that!”

Q. What are the most rewarding and challenging aspects of your job?

“I get a lot of respect from the rest of the Navy for the ability and knowledge I have in my area of expertise. I find it extremely rewarding and my degree has played a part in helping me to gain this. The biggest challenge is keeping abreast of changes in the field and making sure that what we deliver gives the next generation of physical trainers the working knowledge to carry out their duties in a way that enhances the physical ability of the Royal Navy.”

Q. What did you gain personally in terms of confidence, assurance etc?

“The degree gave me the confidence to believe that I could study at a higher level. It also showed my peers that I had proactively gone about improving my ability as a physical trainer and I have since gone on to successfully complete an MSc.”

Q. What advice would you give to students thinking about studying Physical Activity Exercise and Health or joining the Royal Navy?

“The Royal Navy, indeed any of the Services, can offer an interesting and fulfilling career. Life is about living without regrets and experiencing as much as you possibly can. With regards to your degree, never underestimate your ability, no matter what your age or background.”

Q. What are your aspirations for the future?

“At the moment I am hoping for a commission and eventually I would love to move into the education system. When you have spent a lifetime learning and trying to better yourself, it makes sense to give something back.”