HONG KONG CHINA RUGBY LAUNCHES TRAILBLAZING PARTNERSHIP WITH THE UNIVERSITY OF SUNDERLAND

HONG KONG,Aug. 10,2023 -- With the goal of developing the next generation of sports and recreation industry professionals,Hong Kong China Rugby has partnered with the University ofSunderland in Hong Kong,and in collaboration with Kai Tak Sports Initiative (Community Project by Kai Tak Sports Park),to deliver the Pearson BTEC Higher National Diploma in Sport.

In addition to being internationally recognised as the organiser of the famous Cathay/HSBC Hong Kong Sevens,HKCR is also a leader in delivering community sports programmes. This unique Higher National Diploma in Sport will provide students with a high-quality tertiary education combined with practical work experience and networking opportunities that lead to real-world outcomes.

This two-year programme aims to nurture students to become highly proficient professionals in their chosen career by offering the knowledge,skills and competencies required. The programmes cover numerous elements of the sport and creation industry,including Physical Activity and Healthy Lifestyle,Sport and Recreation Policy,Facility Management,Coaching Practice and Skill Development,Outdoor Adventure,Entrepreneurism in Sport and Sports Promotion.

"We are excited to be launching this ground-breaking Sport and Leisure Higher National Diploma course in Hong Kong. This is the first time that a National Sports Association (NSA) in Hong Kong has taken the lead role in helping deliver an education programme," said Robbie McRobbie,CEO of Hong Kong China Rugby.

Hong Kong China Rugby launches trailblazing partnership with the University of Sunderland

"This is a trailblazing education project that will benefit many young people and players who want to pursue sports as a career."

"With the opening of the new Kai Tak Sports Park,it is anticipated there will be a significant expansion in career opportunities within the sports and recreation industry. Furthermore,as the Hong Kong SAR Government is heavily promoting the development and professionalism of the sports industry,Hong Kong China Rugby (HKCR) aims to play a key role in the training and development of the future local workforce."

Francis Chiang,Campus Director,University of Sunderland in Hong Kong said the university was thrilled to see the remarkable achievements of Hong Kong athletes in recent international competitions.

"Their exceptional performances have sparked a growing interest in the sports industry and created a demand for skilled professionals," said Chiang.

"We're excited about the immense potential this presents and are eager to make a positive impact on the vibrant Hong Kong sports scene."

"We're overjoyed to join hands with Hong Kong China Rugby,a well-respected sports organisation in the city,in collaboration with the Kai Tak Sports Initiative to provide a quality sports programme for the local students. We can't wait to see what we can achieve together!"

Pearson BTEC Level 5 Higher National Diploma in Sport

NCR Reg. No.: 253204

Duration: 2 years (Full-time)

Mode of Study : Face-to-face

Intake : January / October

Assessment : Assignment

Entry Requirements:

1 subject pass in HKDSE / A-Level or equivalent,with an English language proficiency of IELTS 5.5 or equivalent.

2024-25 Tuition Fee

BTEC Pearson Higher National Diploma in Sport - HK$50,000 per year*

*The BTEC registration fee is not included. Course fee is subject to the EDB's approval.

Information is accurate at the time of publication and is subject to change. The programme in this publication is registered under the Cap. 493 Non-local Higher and professional Education (Regulation) Ordinance. It is a matter of discretion for individual employers to recognise any qualification to which this course may lead.

Connect with Industry Leaders and Learn from the Best: Enrol Now!

-University of Sunderland's website: HND in Sport | Sunderland HK

-Hong Kong China Rugby's website: https://www.hkrugby.com/community-foundation/higher-national-diploma-in-sport.

Please contact Nathan Steward,General Manager Training and Development (nathan.stewart@hkrugby.com) for more information.

Notes to editors

Hong Kong,China Rugby

Established in 1952,HKCR is the governing body for rugby in Hong Kong and a full member of World Rugby and the Sports Federation & Olympic Committee of Hong Kong,China. Over the past 70 years HKCR has built a reputation in the international sports sector for innovation,excellence,community engagement and exemplary governance. HKCR has a history of delivering world class events,including two Bledisloe Cups,a British & Irish Lions match,and the iconic Cathay/HSBC Hong Kong Sevens.

The University of Sunderland in Hong Kong

The University of Sunderland has a rich heritage spanning over 100 years. The university offers a unique opportunity to study globally recognised qualifications in the heart of Hong Kong.

With the goal of developing the next generation of Sport and Recreation industry professionals,HKCR has partnered with the University of Sunderland in Hong Kong,to deliver the Pearson BTEC Higher National Diploma in Sport. In addition to being internationally recognised for organising the Cathay / HSBC Hong Kong Sevens,HKCR is a leader in delivering community sports programmes. This unique Higher National Diploma in Sport will give students a high-quality tertiary education combined with practical experience and networking opportunities that lead to real-world outcomes. 

CONTACT: Ivy Kwok,ivy.kwok@hkrugby.com