Olympics at Leeds

On the 27th July 2012, the Olympic Games in London will begin. With the World’s biggest event being held in the UK for the first time in 64 years, this it the moment for students to make the most of the opportunity.

 

What is Olympics at Leeds?

With the London 2012 Olympic and Paralympic Games taking place later this year, the University of Leeds and Leeds University Union have developed a partnership that will provide all students with the opportunity to celebrate and get involved with the spirit of the Games.

 

As part of the NUS programme Be a Champion, Leeds University Union are the only UK student union to have been awarded Gold accreditation for 2012 activity. The University will be a base for athletes in the build up to the both Olympic & Paralympic Games, students will compete and volunteer at the Games and the city will be a buzz with sporting and cultural activity.

 

We want to ensure that you, as a student can make the most of the once in a lifetime opportunity that London 2012 presents. Whether you’re passionate about sport, love your art and culture or are dedicated to spreading the message about creating a sustainable environment, there are opportunities that appeal to everyone. And if there is something you want to do that isn’t listed here then don’t be a stranger – get in touch with us and we will help.

 

 

How do I get involved?

Several projects are already taking shape that have been inspired by the Olympic and Paralympic Games. From the creation of an Olympic Garden to a debating series about several aspects of the Games and how they influence the nation, these projects will offer something to all students who want to become involved.

 

The Olympic and Paralympic Games is not just about sport. It is the World’s biggest event and therefore has influences on the economy, culture and environment. Our 2012 activity includes projects that reflect the different aspects that the Games bring to an entire nation.

 

Not only do we want students to support our activity and get behind London 2012, we also are looking for students to get involved in organising and delivering projects. If you would like to make the most of 2012, engage with the projects or have an idea about how you want to celebrate the Games then contact the Union’s student Ambassador Fraser Weir – f.weir@leeds.ac.uk

 

Olympics at Leeds projects

Listed below are all the different ways you can become involved with the 2012 Games as a student.

 

The Games Debate – What are the benefits of the Olympic and Paralympic Games for a host nation? Will the 2012 Games have any economical benefit for the UK and our capital city? Does the legacy of the Games have any real substance for continued benefit beyond 2012? Is £9.4billion a worthwhile investment?

 

On Tuesday 6th March the LUU Debating Society will host a public debate discussing these questions. A panel of guests from the Liberal Democrat, Conservative and Labour societies will be discussing these issues and taking your questions.

 

 

 

 

Photography Competition

Are you a keen photographer? We’re looking for photographers to showcase their work for our 2012 exhibition. Not only this, your work will have the chance to be showcased around Leeds and the rest of the UK.

 

 

 

 

 

 

Peace Poetry

The 9th annual Leeds Peace Poetry Competition is inspired by the Olympic & Paralympics in 2012. Based on the theme of Olympic Truce, the competition seeks entries from schools and the general public.

If you have an interest in poetry and creative writing we are keen to seek volunteers to support workshops in local schools, libraries and social groups.

 

Celebrating The Games

The 4th annual Celebrating The Games lecture series will bring a range of inspirational Olympic-themed talks to the University in January, February and March 2012. Headlines speakers include Kriss Akabusi, Speedo Research Team, London 2012 Torch Relay Producer & representatives of Team GB 2012 Football. All lectures are free to attend & open to all.

www.leeds.ac.uk/olympics
 

Olympic Garden

Taking inspiration from the Olympic movement and London 2012, we will create a new space on campus that commemorates the Games. Students will help design, plant and maintain the unique area on campus for the University community to enjoy. All green fingered volunteers are welcome!
 

Pop-Up Olympics & Paralympics

Keep your eyes peeled for ad-hoc Olympic & Paralympic sports and activities as they pop-up around the University campus. Have you always fancied experiencing beach volleyball, trying a bit of fencing or sprinting 50m on a proper athletics track… all of these and other activities may be appearing near you very soon!