Free BTEC Level 3 Sport and Exercise Science Course in Ashton-under-Lyne. Classes run at Ashton Sixth Form College, full-time over two years. You'll study the science behind sport and human performance, covering anatomy, physiology, exercise and health, sports psychology, fitness testing, and sports injuries. The course mixes theory with practical sessions across a wide range of sports. Units also cover preparing for a career in sport and physical activity. Assessment is split equally between coursework and exams.
Who this course is for
BTEC Sport and Exercise Science is for students who are passionate about sports, fitness, and human performance. It suits those who enjoy both the practical and scientific aspects of sport, including anatomy, physiology, psychology, and biomechanics. The course is ideal for individuals considering careers in sports coaching, physiotherapy, personal training, sports therapy, or exercise science. It also benefits those interested in health and well-being, injury prevention, and performance analysis. BTEC Sport and Exercise Science provides a strong foundation for further study or careers in the sports industry, rehabilitation, and fitness-related fields.
You'll explore the principles of anatomy and physiology as they apply to sport and exercise.
You'll study the relationship between exercise, health, and lifestyle.
You'll learn how to carry out and interpret fitness testing for sport and exercise.
You'll examine sports psychology and how it affects performance.
You'll develop knowledge of sports injuries, including how to recognise and respond to them.
You'll build practical coaching skills across a range of sports.
You'll develop report writing, data interpretation, and presentation skills.
You'll practise working independently and as part of a team.
How you will learn
You'll learn through a mix of classroom theory and practical sessions. Assessment is 50% coursework and 50% exams. Coursework is built around your sporting interests, and the course gradually shifts from teacher-led to student-led learning as you progress. You'll also take part in guest speaker sessions from universities and the sport and exercise industry, university visits, and volunteering opportunities in sport and fitness settings.
What you will need to bring
The centre will provide most materials. Ashton Sixth Form College will confirm anything else you need before you start.
Where next
Jobs you could do
Sports coach: plan and deliver training sessions for individuals or teams.
Personal trainer: design fitness programmes and support clients one to one.
Sports therapist: support athletes with injury prevention and recovery.
Exercise physiologist: assess and improve physical performance in sport or health settings.
Fitness instructor: lead group exercise classes or gym-floor sessions.
Sports development officer: promote participation in sport within communities.
Health and wellbeing advisor: support people to improve their physical health.
What you could study next
Degree in Sport and Exercise Science: the natural next step if you want to specialise further in physiology, psychology, or performance analysis.
Degree in Physiotherapy or Sports Therapy: leads to regulated health professional roles.
Degree in Sports Coaching: focuses on coaching theory and practice at degree level.
Higher or Degree Apprenticeship in Sport: earn while you learn in a sport or fitness organisation.
