Explore the line-up of top professionals and industry leaders who will be sharing their expertise at the Beacon of Light. Our presenters are passionate about guiding the next generation, and you can find out more about them below.

* Speakers may be subject to change.

9.00 am – 9.30 am

Registration

Attendees arrive and register for the day ahead. Get settled and ready for an inspiring day focused on exploring careers in sport.

9.30 am – 9.45 am

Game Changers: Navigating Careers in Sport

Harvey Grout, Founder – Careers in Sport

In 2012, Harvey Grout founded Careers in Sport to create a dedicated resource for aspiring sports professionals. Today, Careers in Sport is the UK’s leading platform for sports education and recruitment. Harvey will share his journey and insights, explaining how the organisation helps inform, educate, and empower the next generation of sports industry professionals.

9.45 am – 10.15 am

Sector Pathways: Advice and Guidance

Andy Gray, Skills Hub Manager – CIMSPA

Join Andy Gray as he introduces CIMSPA (Chartered Institute for the Management of Sport and Physical Activity), which sets the standards for professionalism in sport. This session will highlight the various career paths in sport and physical activity, featuring real-life case studies and expert advice on how to become job-ready. A must for anyone looking to explore opportunities in this dynamic sector.

10.15 am – 11.00 am

Generating Revenue and Building Community: Inside the Business of a Professional Football Club

Jamie Wright, Managing Director – Foundation of Light

Jamie Wright takes you behind the scenes of a professional football club, offering an inside look at the business and community operations that drive success off the pitch. From commercial revenue strategies to community engagement, this session will provide a comprehensive understanding of what it takes to sustain and grow a professional sports organisation.

11.00 am – 11.30 am

Meet the Exhibitors

An opportunity to connect with universities, training providers, and industry experts. Explore the qualifications and programs that can support your career ambitions in the sports sector.

11.30 am – 12.15 pm

Careers in Sport and Exercise Science

British Association of Sport and Exercise Sciences (BASES)

Behind every top athlete is a team of dedicated scientists. With BASES, explore the many exciting career opportunities in sports and exercise science, from high-performance physiology and nutrition to psychology and biomechanics. Whether working with elite athletes or promoting health in the wider community, this session will give you an overview of the careers that blend sport and science.

12.15 pm – 1.00 pm

Lunch

Enjoy lunch and take the opportunity to network with fellow attendees and industry professionals.

1.00 pm – 1.45 pm

Careers in Sports Coaching

Ben Holden – Educational Consultant, Creator and Author of “Wanna Teach PE?”

Do you have a passion for helping others reach their potential? Sports coaching is a rewarding and versatile career, with opportunities to work across all levels of sport, from youth teams to elite athletes. Ben Holden will explore the diverse pathways in coaching, sharing how you can develop your skills and gain valuable experiences that will help you excel in this people-centric profession.

1.45 pm – 2.30 pm

Social Media Power: Elevate Your Personal Brand

David Chimbaza, Head of Social Media – DTC Media

Social media is a powerful tool for building your personal brand. In this session, David Chimbaza will teach you how to create impactful content, grow your audience, and position yourself as an authority in your field. Learn how to optimise your online presence and take away a personalised action plan to elevate your brand and career.

2.30 pm – 2.45 pm

Post-16 Football & Education Scholarship

Stewart Doyle, Scholarship Head Coach – Foundation of Light

For 16-19-year-olds, this scholarship offers the chance to combine football training with education. Stewart Doyle will discuss the program’s structure, balancing academic studies with full-time training from expert coaches to develop both athletic and academic potential.

2.45 pm – 3.00 pm

Closing Presentation

Wrap-up of the day’s sessions and a chance to reflect on the insights shared.

3.00 pm

Event Close

Note: Timetable is subject to changes.

Discover the universities and businesses that will be exhibiting at our Sunderland event. This is your chance to connect, ask questions, and network with institutions and companies that are at the forefront of the sports industry.

What are you waiting for?

(Cancelled)

**Please note that due to unforeseen circumstances we’ve unfortunately been forced to cancel this event**

Don’t miss out! Secure your place at the Beacon of Light event now. Whether you’re a student eager to learn or an educator looking to inspire, this is your opportunity to be part of something special.

Tickets just £15!

Join us for an inspiring day designed for students aged 14-18. Hear from industry experts, discover academic and apprenticeship options, and network with leading sports universities and businesses. Secure your ticket today!

Please note: Venue capacity is limited, so early booking is recommended.