Building confidence beyond college in the gym

Building confidence beyond college: How local gym partnerships are helping our young adults thrive 

At National Star, we believe that preparing young people for life after college means giving everyone the skills to be an active citizen within their community. A focus area is building an understanding of how to look after both body and mind. 

Innovative partnership

Over the past two years our Fitness Instructors, Ibrahim and Ben, have been working closely with local gym Leisure at Cheltenham to support students with a passion for fitness as they begin to explore what life could look like after college. This innovative partnership is allowing students to attend mainstream gyms in the community and it’s making a big impact. 

Each half term a small cohort of students begins a four-week block of sessions. The students and fitness instructors travel weekly to the community gym. National Star and Leisure at Cheltenham staff work together to provide a supportive environment for students to try new equipment, explore a wider range of machines, and build confidence in a public gym setting.   

Before students can access the gym, it is important for them to understand and follow the same process as anyone accessing the gym is required to do. They start with an induction, complete with a full tour and support from gym staff. Having someone other than their college fitness instructor walk them through the experience shows them first-hand that help is always available and that they belong in these spaces.  

Students quickly begin transferring what they have learned in their college gym sessions into the public gym, with many taking the lead in their workouts and embracing new equipment. Some have even gone on to work out independently; a moment of immense pride for our Fitness team. 

Building confidence

Ibrahim Lee-Omer shared: “Watching students like Toby now confidently identify the machines he would like to use, set them up and working out on his own… that’s the moment you realise this is why we do this job.” 

Ben Poulton shared: ‘Our aim is to no longer be needed. We want our students to feel so confident and empowered in the gym that they no longer require our support. We’re seeing students taking control of their sessions, helping each other, and becoming leaders in their own fitness journeys. Students like Christopher, Thomas, and Tom have embraced the opportunity with open arms, taking real ownership of their fitness routines. This is a huge step toward personal independence.’ 

In the summer months, sessions often move outdoors to make the most of sensory-focused workouts. From ropes and slam balls, to the outdoor gym, to our new Cotswold Path that runs adjacent to our Ullenwood campus, students are encouraged to engage with movement in a way that feels both accessible and motivating. The additional benefit to showcasing outdoor fitness opportunities demonstrates that fitness happens in everyday life, not just inside the gym.  

This work is about so much more than access. It’s about creating an inclusive culture in local gyms — where people of all abilities, ages, and backgrounds feel truly welcome.  

Michael Hegley from Leisure at Cheltenham shared: ‘We are working toward becoming a true community hub; offering classes and gym access for those with disabilities, older adults, pregnant people, and anyone who may feel unsure about stepping into a fitness space.’  

We’re incredibly proud of what’s been achieved to date and even more excited about what’s still to come. 

Want to learn more or get involved?

We’d love to hear from local gyms and leisure providers who share our commitment to inclusion, community, and preparing young people for a full and independent life after college. 

Email: [email protected]

Phone: 01242 527631