Strengthening Competitive Sport in Further Education: Why Sector Partnerships Matter More Than Ever
Aug, 2025
Across the further education sector, expectations around sport and enrichment are rising. Colleges are being asked to widen participation, promote inclusion and support student wellbeing — all while operating within sustained financial pressure.
At the same time, competitive sport continues to play a vital role in student development, providing structure, confidence and progression routes for thousands of young people each year.
Partnerships between governing bodies and trusted education suppliers are therefore becoming increasingly important — not simply to provide equipment, but to strengthen delivery across the sector.
The Scale and Significance of College Sport
AoC Sport represents nearly 95 per cent of the college sector in England, supporting around 2.2 million students annually. Its National Championships — now entering their 46th year — remain the largest annual FE student sporting event in Europe, with more than 1,300 students taking part in 2025.
These championships are more than competitions. They are a celebration of competitive sport in colleges, providing recognition, enjoyment and a unique opportunity for students to compete at a national level.
Ensuring consistency, safety and quality at this scale requires careful planning — and dependable resources.
Supporting Excellence and Inclusion
Through its specialist sports brand, Davies Sports, Findel has become AoC Sport’s first official sports equipment partner. The partnership will see Davies Sports support all AoC Sport National Championships in 2025/26, supplying equipment across a range of sports.
Members will also receive an exclusive discount on a wide range of sports equipment — helping colleges stretch budgets further while maintaining quality provision.
“We are delighted to welcome Davies Sports as AoC Sport’s official sports equipment partner. Their support will make a real difference to our National Championships and to the colleges we work with across the country.” — Matt Rhodes, Head of Sport at AoC Sport
“This partnership not only enhances the experience for the thousands of students who take part in our championships but also provides tangible benefits to our members, helping them to deliver high-quality, inclusive sport and physical activity opportunities.” — Matt Rhodes
Practical Value That Extends Beyond Price
College leaders consistently tell us that value is no longer defined purely by cost. It is defined by impact.
How many students benefit? How inclusive is the provision? How sustainable is the investment?
Reliable equipment underpins confidence — for staff organising events, for coaches supporting students, and for young people competing at regional and national level.
“Becoming AoC Sport’s first official sports equipment partner enables us to support the brilliant work being done in the further education sector to promote inclusive, high-quality sporting experiences.” — Paul Clarke, Sales Director at Findel
“Whether students are discovering a new sport or competing at a national level, access to the right equipment can make a real difference.” — Paul Clarke
Why This Matters Now
Competitive sport in further education often represents a critical transition point — bridging grassroots participation and higher-performance pathways. For many students, college is where talent is refined, confidence is built and future ambitions take shape.
When governing bodies, colleges and trusted suppliers work together, the result is stronger infrastructure, improved access and better long-term outcomes.
Supporting Education for Generations
Findel’s heritage in education dates back more than 200 years. Throughout that time, the business has evolved by listening to educators and responding to the realities of their world — from budget pressures to wellbeing priorities.
Partnerships such as this reflect an ongoing commitment to supporting education beyond procurement. They demonstrate how suppliers can contribute to participation, inclusion and opportunity across the entire learning journey.
Because when colleges are equipped with the right resources, students are empowered to perform at their very best — today, and for generations to come.