Brighton Students Step Up To Support Runners At Marathon Finish Line

Healthcare students from the University of Brighton will be on the frontline at this year’s Brighton Marathon Weekend, helping care for runners as they cross the finish line.

The initiative is part of an ongoing partnership with London Marathon Events, giving students valuable real-world experience at one of the country’s biggest participation sporting events.

Twelve students from the university’s School of Education, Sport and Health Sciences will take on roles as ‘medical spotters’ during the marathon on Sunday 12 April.

Their job will be to identify runners in need of medical attention and help triage them quickly and safely.

The team includes students studying Adult Nursing, Physiotherapy, Podiatry and degree apprenticeships in nursing.

Working alongside experienced professionals, they’ll be supporting medical teams in a fast-paced environment – gaining hands-on experience while building confidence, teamwork and communication skills.

Adult Nursing student Ami Giles said she was excited for the opportunity.

“This is a unique chance to learn about the health needs of athletes at all levels and to be part of such a big community event,” she said.

Physiotherapy student Holly Martin added that volunteering was also about giving something back:

“I want to support the city I live in and love.

"Showing empathy and understanding, especially when people are dealing with pain or injury, will be great preparation for my future career.”

The Brighton Marathon, the third largest in the UK, also features a 10K race and a free mile event across the weekend.

It’s not just healthcare students getting involved either – those studying event management will also be volunteering behind the scenes, helping with operations and participant services.

In the lead-up to race day, the university has also been supporting runners by hosting a webinar focused on mental preparation, led by sports psychologist Dr Anastasiya Khomutova, who has worked with athletes competing at events including the Olympic Games.

Students and staff from the University of Brighton will also be among those taking part in both the marathon and 10K events.

The partnership highlights the university’s focus on giving students hands-on experience and the chance to work alongside professionals in real-world settings.