THE UNIVERSITY University of Wales Trinity Saint David (UWTSD) proudly supported the 2025 Welsh Fitness Awards, held recently at the Hilton Hotel in Cardiff, where two of its outstanding students were recognised as ‘Student of the Year’ in their respective categories.
Amy Roberts, who is studying for the Certificate of Higher Education in Personal Training and Sport Massage at UWTSD’s Carmarthen campus, was awarded Female Student of the Year. Her passion for training started in 2023 when she discovered weight training after having the second of her children. She is a strong believer in rehabilitation through exercise and the philosophy of ‘strong body, strong mind’.
Having gained her L2 Gym Instructor Award as part of the course in January, Amy has already started to deliver strength classes at KC Leisure ladies only gym in Carmarthen, and will complete her Level 3 PT award by June, after which she will be looking to build her client base. On completion of the Cert HE, Amy hopes to continue on to the BSc Sport and Exercise Science degree course to further her education.
Jayden Rees, a first-year student on the BSc Sport and Exercise Science programme, received the title of Male Student of the Year. Formerly employed in factory work, Jay took up gym training after stepping away from rugby and quickly developed a strong interest in the field.
His passion for his hobby lead him initially to enrol on an online gym instructor and personal trainer course, then his hunger to learn more lead him to enrol on a three year BSc degree at UWTSD. Although he has been out of education for a number of years, Jay has thrown himself into his studies with vigour, gaining excellent marks on both academic and practical aspects of the course. He is already working part-time at Vitality gym in Port Talbot and is a leader and role model to his fellow students.
Geraint Forster, Programme Manager at UWTSD Carmarthen, said: “Amy and Jay epitomise the type of student we tend to attract and enjoy working with on our courses here at UWTSD in Carmarthen.
“They are both mature students, having worked in different industries previously, but have found a passion for exercise and health, and want to turn that passion into a rewarding career.
“They have both already started working within fitness, but realise the benefit of developing their knowledge and skills further by studying a University degree.
“Amy has opted to study part-time as she has two young children and manages a coffee shop. Jay is studying full-time, but can still fit a few shifts a week in at his gym alongside his studies.”
For more information about UWTSD’s Sport and Physical Activity programmes, visit: Sport and Physical Activity | University of Wales Trinity Saint David
To learn more about the Welsh Fitness Awards, visit: www.welshfitnessawards.co.uk
