Free BTEC Level 3 Sport and Exercise Science Course in Cirencester – Cirencester College

CostFREE
Duration2 years
LevelLevel 3
DeliveryClassroom based
Start7 Sep 2026
Study modeFull-time
AttendanceDaytime
Awarding bodyPearson Edexcel awarding body

About this course

Free BTEC Level 3 Sport and Exercise Science Course in Cirencester. Classes run full-time at Cirencester College over two years. You'll study anatomy, physiology, psychology and biomechanics across eight units, combining classroom theory with practical and lab-based sessions. Entry requires five or more GCSEs at Grade 4 or above, including English Language, Maths and Biology or Science. A Grade 5 in Science is also recommended. This level 3 btec sport and exercise science qualification is equivalent in size to two A Levels and is widely used as a route into university sport science degrees.

Who this course is for

Find out more on our website: cirencester.ac.uk

Entry requirements

5+ GCSEs at Grade 4 or above, from the�core subjects, including English Language, Maths and Biology/Science. A qualification in PE and a Grade 5 in Science is also recommended.

What you will learn

  • You'll study sport and exercise physiology, including how the body responds to physical activity
  • You'll explore functional anatomy and how muscles, bones and joints work together
  • You'll apply psychological principles to sport and exercise performance
  • You'll use field and lab-based methods to carry out fitness testing
  • You'll develop research skills and learn how to analyse data
  • You'll study coaching techniques and how to plan sessions for performance
  • You'll choose from optional units covering sports massage, biomechanics, or physical activity for individuals and groups

How you will learn

You'll learn through a mix of classroom theory and practical sessions. Three units are assessed by written exam, covering sport and exercise physiology, functional anatomy and applied psychology. The remaining units are assessed through coursework and assignments. You'll also complete field and lab-based work as part of your fitness testing unit. Mandatory content makes up 83% of the course.

What you will need to bring

The centre will provide most materials. Cirencester College will confirm anything else you need before you start.

Where next

Jobs you could do

  • Sports coach, planning and delivering training sessions
  • Fitness instructor at a gym or leisure centre
  • Personal trainer working with individual clients
  • Sports development officer supporting community sport programmes
  • Exercise referral specialist working with health-referred clients
  • Sports therapist assistant supporting injury rehabilitation
  • Leisure centre assistant in a sport or recreation facility

What you could study next

  • BSc (Hons) Sport and Exercise Science, a university degree that builds directly on this qualification and opens roles in sport science, physiology and research
  • BSc (Hons) Sports Coaching or Physical Education, for those focused on coaching and teaching
  • HND in Sport, a Level 5 option if you prefer a college-based higher education route
  • BTEC Higher National Certificate (HNC) in Sport, a one-year higher education qualification available at some colleges

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