The media operations modules are designed to introduce students to the process and practice of working with the media during major sport events and will provide them with opportunities to work with the media during London 2012.

On successful completion of the modules, Sheffield Hallam students will be well placed to apply for volunteer positions to help manage the 5,600 accredited media representatives at the Games' Main Press Centre and in the London 2012 sporting venues.

An estimated 600 students are expected to opt to take the modules before the start of the Games. The modules will continue to run long after the Games have concluded to ensure students are able to help deliver the media operations function for other major sporting events being held in the UK in the next decade.

Rosemary Leach, principal lecturer in sport at the University, said: "The modules have been developed alongside LOCOG and will give sport students the knowledge and skills required to engage with the media.
It's great news for the region and will mean hundreds of the region's students will have opportunities to volunteer at London 2012 and future sporting events."

Jonathan Edwards, Olympic gold medallist and London 2012 Board member, said: "The Sheffield Hallam media operations programme offers students a unique opportunity to launch their careers by being involved in one of the biggest media and sporting events in the world.

"It is the first programme of its kind to be developed by LOCOG and a university. It has been awarded the London 2012 Inspire Mark in recognition of the education and participation opportunities it will create."

Jayne Pearce, Head of Press Operations at London 2012, was also delighted with the partnership. She said: “Potentially up to 350 students could find themselves with a chance to work on London 2012. They will be along side event professionals and people who will give freely of their time and extensive experience – perhaps from other fields in life.

“It will be intense, exhausting, dramatic and incredibly rewarding. Not for the faint hearted. And the exciting truth is that London 2012 has no chance of success without the contribution of a knowledgeable and enthusiastic workforce.”

To read Jayne’s full thoughts visit her blog.