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A World-Class Sports Science Experience at Lancaster University
1 December 2025
On Friday 28 November, our IGCSE Physical Education and IB Sports Science students enjoyed an exceptional opportunity to step beyond the classroom and immerse themselves in the world of elite sports science. Thanks to our growing partnership with Lancaster University, students spent the day working alongside Senior Sports Science lecturers, PhD researchers and passionate second-year undergraduates – gaining first-hand insight into the cutting-edge work taking place at one of the UK’s leading institutions.
The visit began in Lancaster’s impressive Human Performance Laboratory, where students assisted in conducting a VO₂ max test for an elite ultra-marathon runner. Seeing this gold-standard measure of aerobic capacity performed live not only brought their theoretical knowledge to life – it allowed them to observe the precision, discipline and scientific rigour behind high-performance testing.
From there, students moved to the university’s sports hall for a hands-on exploration of biomechanical analysis. Using the same advanced equipment employed by professional sports teams and elite athletes, including force plates and specialist reaction-time technology, students tested a variety of physical performance components such as balance, explosive power, spring mechanics and cognitive performance under load. The experience again offered a rare chance to apply classroom learning in a real-world, data-driven environment.
We are thrilled to have established this exciting partnership with Lancaster’s outstanding team of staff. Their passion, expertise and willingness to share their facilities made the day not only inspiring, but transformational for our young learners.
This visit marks the beginning of many more opportunities for our students to engage with world-class sports science in action – and we cannot wait to return.
-Ms Ellery, Head of PE
Windermere School is an Independent Boarding and Day School for ages 3-18, across Junior School, Senior School and Sixth Form. The school offers holiday courses and a summer school programme, as well as short term immersion courses for international pupils, as well as an award winning IB programme. Join the adventure today >
