Our Quality Assurance(QA) team at CIMSPA recently made a visit to Study Active’s headquarters in Hitchin and conducted a quality assessment on their CIMSPA endorsed courses.

Study Active uses a blended learning delivery method utilising e-learning, practical workshops, webinars and dedicated tutorials to empower students to become fitness professionals. They believe this approach allows students to work at their own pace and wrap their studies around other commitments.

We caught up with James Luscombe, Founder and Education Director at Study Active to find out how he found the process and get some imput from him on how he is finding his working relationship with CIMSPA.

How important is Quality Assurance to you and your organisation?
Quality assurance is very important to us as it is part of our mission to provide high quality education and training, which is fit for the industry in which we serve. For this reason, we have always invested heavily in quality and worked closely with our awarding organisation Active IQ, who have been incredibly supportive, to ensure we have always had a “low risk” status. We feel that not only does quality assurance standardise what we are offering against national standards, but it also gives our customers the peace of mind that what we offer is consistent with what the sector demands.

It is interesting that you mention Active IQ being your AO and having their QA process. Did you feel a CIMSPA QA visit was overkill or another level of assurance?

When CIMSPA started to roll out their External Quality Assurance process, I was a little uncertain about the need for this, especially as we had already had our AO EQA visit. As soon as I met the CIMSPA QA however, I soon realised the value that this visit would bring. Not only did the CIMSPA EQA visit completely back up what our AO found (which was a low risk centre with outstanding quality) but it also helped us think of ways we could move forwards as a business. This included advice on how we could make the most of our partnership with CIMSPA and suggestions in regard to increasing our links within the sector. We found this incredibly useful and it really helped strengthen our links with CIMSPA.

You have been a CIMSPA partner for a few years now, how have you found the partnership so far?

We have partnered with CIMSPA since 2016 when we first became a skills development partner (now training provider partner). We have always valued our relationship with CIMSPA and have always kept abreast of developments through our dedicated contact. I must say post visit, it has opened up our eyes to a whole world of opportunities that we can work with CIMSPA on, including engaging with their online resources, attending their events and encouraging our community of students and graduates to become members too.

Study Active have grown a lot over the past couple of years, what is your vision for the future?
It is very much our aim to be recognised as one of the UK’s highest quality providers of Gym & PT qualifications, with it being our intention to achieve this recognition on a “quality over quantity” basis. We want our training to be recognised as having outstanding quality and hope that students choose to enrol with us for this reason. We would also like to ensure that students recognise our brand alongside the CIMSPA brand, so they know that when they learn with Study Active they are taking a course with a provider that works closely with CIMSPA in ensuring standards.

It’s great to know that you share the same vision as we do. What do you think CIMSPA need to do next in order to turn that vision into a reality?

I think it should be CIMSPA’s goal to now promote the message to the entire sector, that the CIMSPA badge is the one to look for when choosing training. This is a badge we are proud to hold!

After the visit I understand you received an “outstanding” rating. Was there anything specific you learned from the visit?

In addition to continuing to enjoy the outstanding support of our AO Active IQ, it’s great to know that CIMSPA are also in our corner and that we as a company can take advantage of the support networks CIMSPA are providing us with. The future is bright!

About Study Active

Study Active is an Active IQ approved training provider offering nationally recognised fitness qualifications. They offer a flexible approach to learning using a blend of e-learning, practical workshops, webinars and work-based learning, all delivered by expert tutors.

Further, you will have regular, detailed, individual coaching and support from our team of experts to support you in achieving your qualification. Assessments are also flexible and can be carried out at one of our centres at various locations across the UK.

Interested? Please get in touch and let us empower you to start or progress your career in the fitness industry.

www.studyactive.co.uk

Everyone Active is delighted to announce that 13 of its Personal Trainers, have qualified as GP Referral Specialists and will now be able to support clients with common medical conditions to maintain and improve their health.

Everyone Active reached out to personal trainer course provider Study Active who delivered the training to the 13 delegates via a combination of digital e-learning, webinars and regular mentoring from a tutor.

Delegates studied areas such as how the body changes during long term-conditions, designing exercise programmes for common medical conditions and what nutritional advice can support referred clients.

With their new skills, Everyone Active hopes to make a continued impact on the health of GP Referral clients across the UK by offering fitness sessions and promoting the benefits of a healthy, active lifestyle.

Fitness Manager, Carl Leatherbarrow echoed the success of this training “The GP Referral training programme delivered by Study Active has given us a foundation to improve our service delivery and make a difference to our community.”

Study Active Education Director James Luscombe had the following to add “We were delighted to support Everyone Active staff through their learning journey and are immensely proud of the team, not just for what they have achieved but also for what they plan to do now they are qualified. They now have the tools to be an inspiration to many GP referred clients looking to improve their health & fitness”

For details about health & fitness courses with Study Active please visit
https://studyactive.co.uk

Active Suffolk have recently completed a CIMSPA funded project with one of the UK's leading personal trainer course providers, Study Active. The project, funded via the CIMSPA Retrain project, aims to upskill staff to give the sector a much welcome post-lockdown boost. The project saw a range of employees from two different employers; Sentinel Leisure Trust (SLT) and Abbeycroft Leisure, achieve their Level 2 Gym Instructing and Level 3 Personal Training qualifications.

The project started mid-pandemic, where many staff were based at home. Study Active's innovative online learning however bridged this gap and enabled the delegates to be reached via the use of technology. The e-learning saw staff learn about key topics such as programme design, anatomy and nutrition.

Once facilities re-opened, the students were able to put their knowledge into practice via the excellent fitness facilities within their own centres. This culminated with Study Active sending out some of their tutor and assessor team to meet the students at their own workplace and go through some useful face-to face tuition ahead of their final practical assessments.

Following successful completion of their qualification, 16 members of staff have now achieved their Gym Instructor and Personal Trainer qualifications and can now help drive forwards local and national health & fitness participation agendas to positively impact on the wellbeing of the Suffolk public. This initiative also helps to meet our priorities as outlined in the Sport & PA Skills Strategy.

If you are interested in developing your skills to work or progress in the fitness industry, please visit: https://studyactive.co.uk/

"So that we can drive forwards our strategy of getting people active post-lockdown we needed to upskill our staff to achieve the necessary qualification to deliver such exercise. This training has not only provided the relevant qualification but it has also given our staff a fresh skills set to put into practice."

Daniel Ward, Centre Manager, Brandon Leisure & Health Hub (Abbeycroft Leisure)

"I found the training progressive and challenging. Study Active were able to adapt during a time where blended learning methods were needed to ensure that even during lockdown, the learning journey continued! There are so many local and national initiatives to get people exercising, but the right tools for the job are needed first – this training provided us with some of the tools needed so that we can go on to make an impact to the local community by getting them active!"

Matt Stebbings Former Community Education Manager for SLT (now Football Development Manager at Suffolk FA).

"We at Study Active were delighted to have taken part in this funded project to deliver nationally recognised Gym & PT qualifications to a team of aspiring industry professionals. It was extremely pleasing to see the delegates acquire the skills and qualifications to go on to make a difference in the sector"

James Luscombe, Education Director, Study Active

Fitness industry expert and educator James Luscombe, MD of Study Active, has issued a call to action for aspiring personal trainers to be more discerning when selecting their training courses.

His message is clear: not all personal trainer qualifications are created equal, and choosing the wrong one could seriously impact a career in fitness.

In an increasingly competitive industry, Luscombe warns that too many individuals are opting for cheap, non-accredited courses that fail to provide the necessary skills and credentials to succeed. “If you're serious about becoming a personal trainer, it’s vital to ensure your course is properly accredited by recognised organisations like CIMSPA and Active IQ,” he said.

He emphasises the importance of practical training, even for online programs. “A good course must include hands-on, practical components, regardless of whether it’s delivered online or in person. Real-world application is what makes a great trainer,” Luscombe added.

The surge in online courses, while increasing accessibility, has also led to a rise in substandard programs lacking proper oversight. Luscombe urges prospective students to do their research: check for accreditation, speak to previous learners, and ensure the curriculum includes practical experience.

“Investing in a quality course isn't just about passing an exam—it’s about being prepared to work with real people, safely and effectively,” Luscombe concluded.

For more information or advice on choosing the right fitness qualifications, it is important to carefully compare personal trainer courses, check that they are CIMSPA accredited and take time to decide the best course for you as an individual.

For further information on Study Active courses please visit https://studyactive.co.uk/

Study Active, UK leading provider of online & blended fitness education, is proud to announce it is amongst the first training providers in the UK to sign the highly regarded Active IQ Quality Charter.

This prestigious accolade underscores Study Active’s unwavering commitment to excellence in delivering high-quality qualifications for fitness professionals.

The Active IQ Quality Charter is to highlight education providers who demonstrate exemplary standards in their teaching practices, operational processes, and learner support services. This status is a mark of distinction within the fitness and leisure industry, recognising centres that go above and beyond in fostering knowledge, skills, and professionalism.

Setting the Standard for Excellence

Study Active’s dedication to providing innovative and flexible learning solutions has been at the core of its success. By combining state-of-the-art e-learning platforms with expert-led practical training, Study Active ensures learners receive a comprehensive and engaging educational experience. Signing the Active IQ Quality Charter reflects the organisation’s commitment to promoting and upholding the following key areas:

• Ethical standards and integrity
• Professional competence and behaviour
• Professional status
• Health, safety, education and training
• Marketing, publicity and fair trading
• Learners as customers

A Commitment to the Future of Fitness Education

James Luscombe, Managing Director of Study Active, expressed his enthusiasm about the recognition: “We are thrilled to sign the Active IQ Quality Charter status. Signing the charter is a testament to the hard work of our team and our commitment to raising the bar in fitness education. It reinforces our mission to empower fitness professionals with the knowledge and skills they need to excel in their careers.”

Jenny Patrickson, Managing Director of Active IQ, also commented on the achievement: “We are delighted that Study Active has signed up to the Active IQ Quality Charter. Their dedication to delivering exceptional learning experiences and supporting students on their journey to success is truly commendable and reflects their unwavering commitment to quality and professionalism.”

Study Active, home of Premier Global, and the UK’s leading provider for Gym Instructing & Personal Training courses have been shortlisted by ukactive for the 2024 Education Provider of the Year award – the third successive year that Study Active have been nominated.

After winning the award last year Study Active will have the opportunity to defend their title at this year’s ukactive awards which will be held at the ICC in Birmingham on 3rd October.

The ukactive awards are there to recognise and celebrate the excellence and impact that goes on throughout the active leisure sector. There are a number of award categories recognising both individuals and organisations, but mostly it is an opportunity for the sector to unite as one in celebrating the success and impact that has been achieved throughout the year. Study Active has been shortlisted for the Education Provider of the year award in recognition of their continued nationwide work in delivering excellence on both a B2C and B2B level.

This includes providing a continuous pipeline of highly skilled and “work ready” PT graduates, whilst also serving the needs of a range of organisations with bespoke learning & development. Study Active were crowned winners of this award last year in Leeds, a triumph that followed on from being “highly commended” in their category in 2022.


James Luscombe, MD of Study Active made the following comments on receipt of the news: “We are delighted to learn that we have been nominated for the ukactive Education Provider of the Year award for the third successive year. This really is a testament to the hard work and dedication that the Study Active team put in to helping learners, organisations and the community on a daily basis. It really does mean the world to us to be recognised in this way for the role we play in helping to deliver the ukactive mission.”


The awards take place on 3rd October at the Birmingham ICC.


For more information on fitness education courses with Study Active please see studyactive.co.uk

Study Active, one of UK’s leading fitness education providers have announced that they are teaming up with CIMSPA to be part of the all new CIMSPA Training Academy for Sport & Physical Activity.

This brand-new Training Academy empowers individuals and businesses to access the highest quality training & development opportunities through a select number of carefully chosen partners – all of which have achieved the prestigious CIMSPA “Enhancing” status – which is CIMSPA’s highest Quality Assurance outcome.

Created by CIMSPA, the Training Academy for Sport and Physical Activity has been designed in collaboration with employers, education providers and sector professionals to provide a “one stop shop” portal of quality-assured “enhancing rated” CPD and training. Access to such a resource is ideal for existing sector professionals looking to upskill or those looking to embark on a career in the active leisure industry.

Study Active will be working with some fellow “Enhancing” rated education providers in a “stronger together” approach that aims to be a gamechanger in how quality-assured training is found and accessed.

All of the qualifications and CPD on offer through the Training Academy, including Study Active’s Level 3 Personal Trainer Course, have been endorsed and mapped to CIMSPA Professional Standards meaning that delegates will have the opportunity to develop the skills, knowledge, and competencies that respond to both client and employer needs.

James Luscombe, Managing Director of Study Active commented:” We are thrilled to be founding members of such an exciting new chapter for industry-ready, quality-assured training. The Study Active team are extremely proud of achieving the prestigious “Enhancing” status earlier this year and now look forward to collaborating with CIMSPA and like-minded providers who want to set the bar high- and drive-up standards within our sector”

Tara Dillon, CEO of CIMSPA stated: “As we launch the Training Academy for Sport and Physical Activity, we are delighted that Study Active has become one of the first Education Partners to offer their provision through the Training Academy. Study Active have embraced our quality assurance framework, achieving 3-star Enhancing status which demonstrates their commitment to the highest quality provision. The training and professional development opportunities offered as part of the Training Academy are only delivered by providers like Study Active that have achieved 3-star status so both learners and employers know that they are getting the best possible experience.”

The CIMSPA Training Academy for Sport & Physical Activity launched on 2nd July so now individuals and employers alike can visit the Training Academy to view a diverse range of accessible, flexible and quality-assured development opportunities. Further information can be found at www.trainingacademyspa.co.uk

For more information about Study Active’s industry-leading fitness education courses, please see https://studyactive.co.uk/

Study Active, the current holder of the prestigious ukactive Education Provider of the Year award 2023 and a leading provider of Personal Training and Gym Instructor qualifications in the UK, has announced it has legally acquired the name “Premier Global” and select Premier Global branding assets from Assessment Technologies Institute LLC, part of Ascend Learning in the US.

The Premier Global name, now backed by Study Active’s leading fitness education products paves the way for a new era in the sector.

The Premier Global brand has always represented the gold standard in education within the fitness sector and even since the company Premier Global ceased trading in 2022, the brand has remained synonymous with quality, innovation, and trust.

Study Active's acquisition of the Premier Global name and select branding assets (which includes the logos, class 41 trademarks, copyright, web domain, and associated goodwill), marks a significant development in the fitness education landscape and commitment to driving up standards in this sector. 

As Active IQ’s largest training centre in the UK and being a CIMSPA “Enhancing” rated endorsed education provider, Study Active has established itself as a trusted institution in the industry. The acquisition of the Premier Global name and select branding assets further solidifies Study Active's commitment to maintaining and elevating professional standards in fitness education.

"We are thrilled to announce our acquisition of the Premier Global name and select branding assets," said James Luscombe, Managing Director of Study Active. "The Premier Global brand name has long been a trailblazer in the field of fitness education, and we are honoured to carry forward its legacy. This acquisition underscores our dedication to providing world-class education and training to our students both today and in the future."
Tara Dillon, CEO of CIMSPA said: “As the professional development body for the sport and physical activity sector, CIMSPA is pleased to learn of Study Active’s acquisition of the Premier Global brand name and select branding assets. The Premier Global name is certainly a familiar and trusted name within the sector and like many we were sad when the Premier Global company ceased trading in 2022. We are delighted however the Study Active, one of our “enhancing” rated endorsed providers can now breathe new life into this esteemed brand name and ensure its legacy into the future.”
Jenny Patrickson, Managing Director of Active IQ: "We would like to congratulate the Study Active team in acquiring the Premier Global brand name, which is synonymous with setting standards for fitness education. By combining Study Active's expertise and resources with the trust associated with the Premier Global brand name, we believe this acquisition will enhance the learning experience for Study Active learners and contribute to the continued growth and professionalism of the industry."

Former CEO of Premier Global (who ceased trading in 2022), Debra Stuart said: “I am thrilled to see that Study Active is aligning itself with such a strong and reputable brand name. This acquisition of the Premier Global brand name is a testament to Study Active's dedication to providing top-notch training and upholding the values of excellence and quality. I look forward to seeing how this new and exciting alignment will raise the standard of health and fitness education to a level appropriate for today’s aspiring fitness professionals.”

Former, current, and future learners of Study Active can rest assured that the values and ethos that has long been associated with the Premier name is now backed by Study Actives leading products. 

James adds: “The acquisition means our learners can take comfort from associating with an instantly recognisable brand name while enjoying the advantages of Study Active's modern approach to fitness education. Our goal is to empower fitness professionals with the knowledge, skills, and resources they need to excel in their careers.” 

For more information about Study Active and this exciting new chapter, please visit studyactive.co.uk or premierglobal.co.uk 

Study Active, one of the UK’s more forefront providers of fitness education, has recently teamed up with health referral software company ReferAll, which forms a collaboration which it is hoped will support the quality of health referrals nationwide.

With health referral schemes across the UK growing and with more opportunities for those with chronic conditions available, it’s certainly an exciting time to be part of this important segment of the fitness sector and with so many moving parts to the health referral process, it makes sense to see leading organisations working together in a bid to optimise the process.

Study Active have long been a key player with health referrals from education perspective, with their long established flagship health referral product; the Active IQ Level 3 Diploma in Supporting Clients with Long-term Conditions being a popular choice for both individual exercise professionals and also for gyms of all sizes looking to engage with health referrals.

ReferAll provide cutting edge social prescribing & exercise referral software which can be implemented by leisure & fitness centres to receive referrals and track the adherence & progress of the health referral programmes they deliver. ReferAll’s software has been incredibly popular and is now being used by large health & leisure providers throughout the UK.

The gap in the market however was that graduates of health referral courses (be that with Study Active or elsewhere) did not necessarily have any awareness of what ReferAll software (or any similar software) is all about thus a vital knowledge gap existed once graduates started work on such a scheme.

This new partnership between Study Active and ReferAll will see awareness of the ReferAll product built into the learner’s journey. This means that when someone completes a health referral course with Study Active, not only are they qualified to deliver health referral exercise but they also have a baseline understanding of the importance of software and also an awareness of what ReferAll is all about!

James Luscombe, Managing Director of Study Active, has the following to say; “Study Active are delighted to be partnering with ReferAll as we work together to make the fitness sector a more inclusive place for those suffering from long-term conditions. We hope that this collaboration will benefit all involved including learners, exercise professionals but most of all the health referral clients themselves”

James’s enthusiasm was echoed by Jerry Saddington, Sales & Account Manager at ReferAll. “I'm excited about our partnership with Study Active. It reinforces our dedication to supporting health & fitness professionals. By introducing them to the ecosystem of health referrals, including the practical benefits of using software like ReferAll, we aim to empower them to make a real difference in the lives of those managing long-term conditions.”

For information about studying a fitness course with Study Active please go to studyactive.co.uk