UWTSD Graduate builds on a career in Leisure and Leadership

Carl Daniels is celebrating graduating with an MA in Professional Practice from the University of Wales Trinity Saint David (UWTSD), marking an important milestone in a career dedicated to education, sport, leisure and public service. 

Carl’s connection with the University stretches back more than two decades. He originally trained as a teacher at Trinity College, before moving from teaching into sport and leisure roles with the local authority. His work focused on supporting schools and communities to help more people become physically active. 

As his career progressed into leadership and management, Carl decided to further develop his skills through postgraduate study. Returning to UWTSD felt like a natural next step. He said:  

“I progressed into leadership and management roles, so when I chose to further develop myself through a Master’s degree, UWTSD was the natural choice,”  

Carl chose the MA in Professional Practice because of its flexible and personalised approach. Rather than following a traditional subject-specific route, the course enabled him to tailor his learning to his current role and future ambitions. He added:  

“I liked the fact that the MA in Professional Practice focused more on my individual needs, enabling the modules to be tailored to my development in my current role and future career aspirations.”  

His central aim was to gain a deeper understanding of himself as a leader and strengthen his leadership capability. Carl hoped that this development would benefit not only his own career, but also his team, the services they deliver and ultimately the communities served through his local authority role. 

The programme is designed to support professional development that is closely aligned with workplace practice, enabling learners to take individual modules and apply their learning directly to their roles and career progression. 

A particular highlight of the course was the support he received from lecturers while balancing part-time study with a full-time job and family life. 

“Studying on a part-time basis, with young children and a full-time job, the lecturers empathised with my situation. I never felt there was negative pressure with deadlines and as I moved through the course, there was always a supportive solution. This kept me engaged and able to give of my best.” 

Sarah Loxdale, Senior Lecturer from UWTSD’s Professional Practice Framework added: 

 “Carl’s journey is a great example of how experiential learning can empower professionals to make meaningful change in their own organisations. Through undertaking research within his own service, he has been able to gain valuable insight and enhance the way services are delivered to the community. We are incredibly proud of his achievements and the positive difference his work will continue to make.” 

Carl’s final Work-Based Research Project proved especially challenging and rewarding. The project required him to develop new research skills and undertake research within his own service, providing direct insight into the experiences of customers. 

“The research enabled me to dive right into my own service as an insider researcher, which gave me face-to-face insight from customers as to how we affect them. It was pretty humbling.” 

Returning to academic study after more than 20 years also presented challenges. Carl found writing his first assignment difficult, particularly as his original BA(Ed) had not been structured like a typical academic course. However, with support from lecturers and determination through many late nights, he was able to build confidence and take pride in his achievements. 

Reflecting on the impact of the course, Carl said the MA has supported his professional development from the outset. 

“The early stages of the course were about leadership, management and change, so they are fundamental. I think it is key to understand yourself, your preferred styles and what that means in practice. You can be purposeful with your actions, while still being authentic. I have continuously applied this and feel a better leader for it.” 

Carl would recommend the MA in Professional Practice to those prepared to take ownership of their learning. 

“The course offers a refreshing approach to learning, giving you the flexibility to shape your development with the support of excellent lecturers. It encourages independent thinking and reflection, helping you build skills that are directly relevant to your role. If you’re motivated to grow and make a real difference in your practice, it’s an incredibly rewarding experience.” 

Lowri Harris, PPF Programme Manager at UWTSD, said: 

 “We are delighted to see Carl achieve this significant milestone. The MA in Professional Practice is designed to support experienced professionals in developing themselves in a way that is directly relevant to their roles, and Carl has embraced that fully. His commitment to research and reflective practice and applying his learning within community sport and public service demonstrates the real impact of the programme.” 

If you’re interested in developing your professional practice, applications are now open for the October intake — please email ppf@uwtsd.ac.uk or visit https://www.uwtsd.ac.uk/professional-practice-framework for more information. 

Further Information

Lowri Thomas

Principal Communications and PR Officer     
Corporate Communications and PR     
Email: lowri.thomas@uwtsd.ac.uk     
Phone: 07449 998476