Sport Ext. Diploma

Course Fact File

Level 3
Triple Programme
Vocational
2 Year Duration

Overview

If you are passionate about sport and interested in how the body works, how athletes improve and how sporting opportunities are organised, this course could be for you. It provides a broad foundation for progression into university, apprenticeships or employment in sport and active leisure.

You will combine practical activities with academic study, exploring sports performance, coaching, leadership, fitness, health, sports development and business. You will learn how to apply your knowledge to realistic situations, including planning fitness programmes, delivering coaching sessions and organising sports events.

The Extended Diploma is equivalent in size to three A levels. Assessment combines coursework and practical assignments with a Pearson examination and externally assessed tasks.

What will you learn?

The units you will cover include:

Anatomy and Physiology – explore the body’s major systems and how they support movement and exercise.

Fitness Training and Programming for Health, Sport and Wellbeing – examine client needs and design appropriate fitness programmes.

Professional Development in the Sports Industry – investigate careers, assess your skills and plan your development.

Sports Leadership – develop the qualities and skills needed to lead sporting activities.

Practical Sports Performance – apply skills, techniques and tactics, and review performance.

Coaching for Performance – plan, deliver and evaluate coaching sessions.

Research Methods in Sport – explore research approaches and consider validity, reliability and accuracy.

Development and Provision of Sport and Physical Activity – investigate sporting opportunities and participation.

Investigating Business in the Sport and Active Leisure Industry – examine sports businesses and factors affecting their success.

Skill Acquisition in Sport – explore how performers learn and develop skills.

The College’s selected optional units are:

Sports Event Organisation – investigate, plan, deliver and review a sports event.

Rules, Regulations and Officiating in Sport – apply sporting rules and develop officiating skills.

Exercise, Health and Lifestyle – investigate lifestyle factors and support positive changes.

Current Issues in Sport – explore sport’s development and the influence of media, technology and participation barriers.

Who is the course aimed at?

This course is aimed at students who enjoy both the practical and theoretical aspects of sport. It suits those interested in sports coaching, teaching, fitness, sports science, sports development, event organisation or sport and leisure management.

You should be willing to participate in practical sessions, work with others, complete independent research and meet assessment deadlines.

Entry Requirements & Other Info

Entry Requirements

You must have a minimum of four GCSEs at grades 9-4, including English, Maths and Science. Equivalent grades in three or more vocational subjects will be accepted as an alternative.
Experiences

You will have opportunities to apply your learning through coaching, leadership activities and sports event organisation. Lessons will make use of the college’s sporting facilities, including the 3G pitch and fitness suites.

Guest speakers, educational visits and work experience opportunities will help you explore careers and understand the expectations of the sport and active leisure industry. Additional coaching and leadership qualifications may also be available.
Progression

The course provides a foundation for further study in areas such as sport and exercise science, sports coaching, physical education, sports development, and sport and leisure management.

You may also progress into relevant apprenticeships or employment. University and apprenticeship entry requirements vary, so you will receive support to identify pathways that match your interests, qualifications and career ambitions.
Outcomes

You will develop sporting knowledge and practical experience alongside transferable skills in leadership, communication, research, teamwork and organisation.

Possible career pathways include sports coach, fitness instructor, personal trainer, sports development officer, sports event organiser and leisure centre manager. With further study and the appropriate professional qualifications, you could also pursue careers in PE teaching, sport and exercise science or physiotherapy.