PhD Studentship - Understanding marginalisation and experiences of water sports

Sport and leisure have been recognised as a crucial social domain, especially in relation to health, wellbeing and social interactions. In a recent scoping review, it was identified that marginalized populations may benefit more than others from sport participation; however, they frequently do not engage in such activities due to a complex interaction of individual, social, organisational, environmental and political factors (Lange et al., 2024).

Watersports combine two key elements often cited independently to support individual wellbeing: physical activity and spending time outdoors in blue spaces. Research into outdoor spaces has often focused on adult populations and overlooked disparities in access, experience, and engagement across intersecting lines of class, gender, sexuality, race, ethnicity, physical ability, and legal status (Phoenix et al., 2021; Bates and Moles, 2022).

This PhD aims to address these knowledge gaps by focusing on children and young people with multiple forms of marginalization and their experiences in watersports. Through a partnership with the Royal Yachting Association (RYA) and the Andrew Simpson Foundation (ASF), this PhD scholarship will explore access to, feelings of safety, and experiences of wellbeing within these spaces. Central to this research will be the empowerment of children to voice their concerns and aspirations, ensuring that their thoughts, feelings, and views translate into meaningful change. Prospective candidates are encouraged to propose research that places children's agency and wellbeing at the forefront of their project.

This is a fully-funded PhD studentship which includes a stipend of £18,622 each year to support your living costs. 

Key information

Next start date:

September 2024

Location:

Bournemouth University, Talbot Campus

Duration:

36 months

Entry requirements:

Outstanding academic potential as measured normally by either a 1st class honours degree or equivalent Grade Point Average (GPA), or a Master’s degree with distinction or equivalent. If English is not your first language you'll need IELTS (Academic) score of 6.5 minimum (with a minimum 6.0 in each component, or equivalent). For more information, check our full entry requirements below.