03 May, 2024 | Posted by Michelle Hogan

Combined Internship and Master's Opportunity with ISM UK Sports Management and Portobello Institute

A soccer tackle viewed from the ground with one man in the air as another tackles the ball from under him

Are you looking to combine your master's qualification to advance your sports career with an internship at a rapidly emerging sports management agency?

Portobello Institute is proud to announce an exciting new partnership with Inter Sports Management - ISM UK, a sports management agency - to provide exciting new opportunities for those wishing to advance their careers while gaining their sports master's.

Through this exclusive partnership, a limited number of candidates will be selected to intern at ISM UK, working in data analysis for client recruitment while simultaneously studying for their MSc Sports Performance Analysis at Portobello Institute.

This master's is awarded by Liverpool John Moore's University, one of the world’s leading universities for sports science and physical education.

ISM UK is a sports management company offering a comprehensive sports network to its clients. It represents players across the academy and non-league levels, offering each client the support needed to progress.

What sets ISM UK apart is its unique approach, placing the athletes it represents at the centre of its operations.

ISM UK Logo

What is the Combined Internship-Masters Opportunity?

Portobello Institute has joined forces with ISM UK to create a unique opportunity for four intern roles at ISM while gaining your MSc in Sports Performance Analysis at Portobello Institute at the same time.

This exceptional combination of theory and practice has been designed to ensure that Portobello Institute graduates are fully prepared for excellent career opportunities upon graduation.

The Recruitment Analyst Internship is an excellent opportunity where the chosen candidates will work to find the best talent within the world of football by assessing player data, comparing player data and producing reports to highlight your findings.

You will play a key role in ISM UK's decision-making process as your insights will be utilised within the decisions of player representation.   

Recognising the invaluable experience and expertise ISM UK offers, Portobello Institute sees an opportunity to integrate these qualities into undergraduate and postgraduate programs, enriching students' educational journeys with real-world industry insights. 

Similarly, ISM UK acknowledges the importance of collaborating with students and valuing their fresh perspectives and expertise.

This collaboration promises to be mutually beneficial for our students as they gain practical experience and contribute innovative ideas to the sports sector while ISM UK benefits from the enthusiasm and insights of emerging talent.

Together, Portobello Institute and ISM UK aim to create a dynamic learning environment that prepares students for success in the sports industry.

View our brochure here.

What is involved in the MSc in Sports Performance Analysis?

Delivered through blended learning (completely remote) this MSc provides you with an in-depth and relevant focus on applied and academic sports performance analysis skills that are needed for the roles in performance analysis in elite and professional sports environments.

This master's is designed to professionally develop practitioners to progress in their practical and future academic careers.

It is awarded by Liverpool John Moore’s University (LJMU), and graduates will hold an instantly recognised qualification from one of the world’s leading universities for sports science and physical education.

It takes three academic semesters to complete, and you can download a brochure or visit the course page to find out more.

LJMU Logo

Register Your Interest

Please complete the form below to register your interest in this unique opportunity to combine an incredible internship with gaining your master's at Portobello Institute, advancing your career with top-quality networks and recognised qualifications.

Our expert course advisor will be in touch with you with more information about this opportunity.

 

Graduate Success for the MSc Sports Performance Analysis 

Graduates of the MSc Sports Performance Analysis go on to work at high levels in sports analysis companies, coaching and performance leadership and data analysis roles.

Joe Walsh is Director of Rugby at Catholic University School/U17s Schools Coach & U17s North Midlands Coach at Leinster Rugby, Forwards & Defence Coach at Buccaneers RFC and Head of Performance Analysis at Rugby Academy Ireland.

He recently graduated from Portobello Institute/Liverpool John Moore's University MSc in Sports Performance Analysis. 

 

The Importance of Practical Experience for a Sports Career

Dr Danielle Prescott is an Academy Scout at Manchester United FCa Talent Scout at England Lionesses and a Development Consultant for Portobello Institute's sports department.

"Research by Bridgstock (2009) highlights the importance of experiential learning in ensuring graduates' readiness for the workforce.

"By gaining practical experience alongside academic study, students acquire industry-specific skills and knowledge that enhance their employability.

"In addition to this, according to a meta-analysis by Richardson et al. (2012), experiential learning contributes significantly to the development of soft skills such as communication, teamwork, and adaptability, which are essential for success in various professional domains.

"Studies by Fugate et al. (2004) and Higgins et al. (2015) emphasise the role of experiential learning in facilitating networking opportunities for students.

"Engaging in internships, co-op programs, and other experiential activities allows students to connect with professionals in their field, expanding their professional networks and enhancing their career prospects. 

"These academic references provide empirical support for the benefits of gaining experience while studying, including improved learning outcomes, skill development, industry readiness, and networking opportunities," she said.

Portobello Institute aims to work even harder to bridge the gap between theory and practice and this collaboration with ISM UK is only the beginning. 

The Value of Combining Practical Experience with Studying

Studying provides the foundation of knowledge, while experience adds the practical dimension, blending theory with real-world application.

This synergy is vital for comprehensive learning and personal growth. 

Experience fosters a deeper understanding of concepts learned in books or classrooms by providing tangible examples and context.

It bridges the gap between theory and practice, allowing individuals to see how their knowledge translates into real-life scenarios.

Moreover, experience often brings unforeseen challenges, encouraging critical thinking and problem-solving skills that textbooks alone cannot impart. 

Additionally, experience cultivates soft skills such as communication, teamwork, and adaptability, which are indispensable in various professional and personal settings.

Through hands-on involvement, individuals learn to navigate complex social dynamics, manage conflicts, and collaborate effectively. 

Furthermore, experience enhances the retention and application of knowledge.

Research suggests that active engagement in real-world tasks reinforces learning and promotes long-term memory retention. By immersing oneself in practical experiences, one can strengthen academic concepts and gain a deeper insight into their intricacies. 

In essence, while studying lays the groundwork, experience enriches learning by providing depth, relevance, and applicability.

It shapes individuals into well-rounded, adaptable professionals equipped to tackle the complexities of the modern world. Thus, the integration of experience alongside studying is paramount for holistic education and personal development. 

Get in Touch

If you have any further questions about this opportunity, you can book a consultation call with our expert course advisor, Hannah Meade, email hannah.meade@portobelloinstitute.com or call 01 892 0029.

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