HSDC is continuing to redefine what exceptional technical education looks like with a new enrichment initiative designed to support students on the Digital T Level. The ‘Unplug to Recharge’ sessions, created by the Digital IT team, combine physical activity, teamwork and wellbeing with the high-quality teaching and employability that the College is known for.
Digital T Level students preparing for a round of Tag Archery.
To strengthen the professional skills offered by HSDC’s Digital T Level, the team introduced optional physical activity sessions designed to counter ‘screen fatigue’ and improve focus. These sessions make use of HSDC’s extensive sporting facilities, allowing students to swap code for competition.
The programme is spearheaded by Steve Woods, one of HSDC’s Digital IT lecturers at the South Downs Campus. Steve, having experienced first-hand the high-intensity, screen-heavy demands of modern digital careers, recognised a need to teach students not only essential skills for coding and cyber, but also the habits that will help them thrive long term.
Steve explained:
“Digital careers are exciting, fast-moving and incredibly rewarding – but they can also be highly sedentary. Supporting our students means preparing them for the reality of industry expectations – building the resilience, wellbeing and mindset to succeed.”
The students have been engaging with sports such as table tennis and pool, ideal for honing their reflexes and strategy, whilst others have formed five-a-side football teams, increasing their social confidence and communication. Tag archery was a particular favourite among the students, combining problem solving with healthy competition.
Steve Woods, Digital T Level lecturer, launched the initiative with his students.
Students returning from these wellbeing sessions have reported improved concentration in lessons, stronger group performance and greater confidence during their employer-set projects and workplace preparation. These skills support higher achievement across English, maths and technical units, ensuring that the learners can progress successfully into apprenticeships, university and roles in the digital sector.
At HSDC, results are not only measured in grades, but in what these grades lead to. For students on the Digital T Level, their curriculum is built around employer-relevance through substantial work placements, as well as hands-on learning both in and out of the classroom. Pairing this cutting-edge curriculum with initiatives that promote personal resilience, wellbeing and holistic development allows these students to leave HSDC with a true competitive advantage and a forward thinking approach to work in the modern digital industry.
Since launching this initiative, Steve and the students have been encouraging other departments, especially those with computer-based or theory-heavy courses, to make use of HSDC’s facilities and explore similar opportunities.
Steve added:
“It’s a low-effort, high-impact way to support student wellbeing and achievement. Watching the students try to outsmart you in Tag Archery is a brilliant way to build rapport!”