Further education can help professionals build on their experience, develop new skills and bring fresh ideas into their industries. The Tertiary Education Scholarships Scheme (TESS) supports this journey by providing opportunities for Maltese students and professionals to continue their studies.
One beneficiary is Andrew Borg Hedley, who has successfully completed a Master of Business Administration in Sports Management at Knight’s College, Malta, through the scheme.
Andrew has spent the past eight years working as a personal trainer and strength and conditioning coach through his private practice, Hedley Fitness. With support from TESS, he complemented that practical experience with a deeper understanding of the business and management side of the sports and fitness industry.
His studies covered areas including strategic marketing, financial management, entrepreneurship, operations and organisational behaviour, providing knowledge he can apply to the development of his business.
The MBA also gave Andrew the opportunity to research a practical challenge within his industry: the financial factors influencing personal training memberships and how long clients maintain them.
Based on responses from 70 adults with personal training membership experience, his dissertation explored the relationship between affordability, household circumstances, perceived value and continued participation.
Among the findings, participants who felt personal training offered greater value for money were more likely to express an intention to renew. The research also highlighted the importance of considering clients’ financial circumstances and responsibilities when developing services and membership packages.
“The MBA has given me the knowledge and tools to continue to develop my local business and expand,” Andrew said.
His experience illustrates how support through TESS can connect academic learning with professional practice. By helping people pursue further education, the scheme supports skills development that can benefit their careers, businesses and the wider community.
