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

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

Free BTEC Level 3 Sport and Exercise Science Course in Brighton. Full-time daytime classes run at Varndean College, over two years. You'll study physiology, anatomy, psychology, biomechanics, sports coaching, and fitness training, mixing academic theory with practical and vocational work. The course meets standard advanced level entry requirements, plus a minimum Grade 4 in GCSE Science. It's a strong route into a sports-related degree or employment in the sports and fitness sector. Assessment combines exams, coursework assignments, and practical assessments.

Who this course is for

The programme encompasses areas of study from physiology, psychology and social issues, to sports coaching, leadership, health & fitness, as well as practical performance analysis and development. Sessions are a mixture of academic theory with applied vocational practice, aimed to develop your knowledge and performance skills as a great pathway to study at university or step into a career in the sports industry. Students may also undertake additional vocational qualifications to support their Level 3 programme and diversify their CV. These include: • Gym Instructing • Sports Leadership • Coaching Badges • Duke of Edinburgh Whether you are motivated by developing your sports performance or just interested in getting back into sport, these courses have something for you.

Entry requirements

Standard Advanced Level entry requirements, plus: Minimum Grade 4 in GCSE Science

What you will learn

  • You'll study sport and exercise physiology, including how the body responds to physical activity.
  • You'll learn functional anatomy and how it applies to movement and performance.
  • You'll explore sport and exercise psychology and its role in performance.
  • You'll carry out field and laboratory-based fitness testing.
  • You'll develop coaching skills for performance and fitness settings.
  • You'll apply biomechanics principles to sport and exercise science.
  • You'll plan and deliver specialised fitness training programmes.
  • You'll design and complete an applied research project using research methods.

How you will learn

Classes are classroom-based, full-time during the day. Learning combines academic theory with applied vocational practice. Assessment is through written exams for core units, coursework assignments, and practical assessments. Some units are externally examined by Pearson Edexcel. You'll also develop transferable skills including research, analysis, leadership, and teamwork through both classroom and practical sessions.

What you will need to bring

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

Where next

Jobs you could do

  • Sports coach, working with athletes or community groups
  • Personal trainer, supporting clients in gyms or fitness settings
  • Fitness instructor, leading classes and gym-floor sessions
  • Sports development officer, promoting participation in sport
  • Strength and conditioning assistant, supporting athlete training programmes
  • Sports analyst, tracking and reviewing performance data
  • Health and wellbeing coordinator, working in leisure or public health settings

What you could study next

  • BSc (Hons) Sport and Exercise Science, the natural next step for those wanting to specialise further in physiology, psychology, or performance analysis.
  • BSc (Hons) Sports Coaching, for those focused on developing coaching practice at degree level.
  • BSc (Hons) Physical Education and Teaching, leading toward a career in PE teaching.
  • Level 3 Personal Training Qualification (e.g. Active IQ or CIMSPA-endorsed), for those moving directly into fitness work.
Apply on varndean.ac.uk →
Apply now →

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