BTEC Level 3 Sport and Exercise Science Course in Hayes for 16 to 18 Year Olds

CostFree for 16 to 18 year olds
Duration24 months
LevelLevel 3
DeliveryBlended learning
Start1 Sep 2027
Study modeFull-time
AttendanceDaytime
Awarding bodyPearson Edexcel awarding body

A sixth-form course for 16 to 18 year olds. Aged 19 or over? See Sports Coaching Courses in Hillingdon.

About this course

Free BTEC Level 3 Sport and Exercise Science Course in Hayes. Classes run at Harlington School, full-time over two years, with a mix of online study and time at the centre. You'll cover sport science, exercise physiology, psychology, and anatomy, building the knowledge that sports scientists use to support athletes and fitness clients. The course is equivalent in size to three A levels. You'll need five GCSEs at grade 4 or above, including English and Maths, to be considered. It prepares you for a sport and exercise science degree or a higher apprenticeship in the sport and leisure industry.

Who this course is for

This course is perfect for anyone with an interest in subjects such as science, psychology and sport. A relatively new career area, sports scientists are currently in great demand, helping both elite sportsmen and women and amateur fitness enthusiasts improve their training and performance. The course is equivalent in size to three A levels and will prepare you either for entry to higher education sports and exercise courses or higher apprenticeships in the sport and leisure industry.

Entry requirements

5 GCSE's at grade 4 or above including English and Maths

What you will learn

  • You'll study the anatomy and physiology of the human body and how it responds to exercise.
  • You'll explore sport and exercise psychology, including motivation, performance, and mental wellbeing.
  • You'll learn how to analyse athletic performance and design training programmes.
  • You'll investigate nutrition and its role in sport and physical activity.
  • You'll develop research and data skills used in exercise science settings.
  • You'll examine health, fitness testing, and how results are interpreted and applied.

How you will learn

The BTEC National Extended Diploma is assessed mainly through coursework and assignments rather than exams. You'll complete units through a blend of classroom sessions at Harlington School and online study. Some units include externally assessed tasks set by Pearson Edexcel. Work is built up over the two years, so you're assessed throughout the course rather than in a single final exam.

What you will need to bring

The centre will provide most materials. Harlington School will confirm anything else you need before you start.

Where next

Jobs you could do

  • Sports scientist: supporting athletes to improve training and performance
  • Fitness coach: designing and delivering exercise programmes for clients
  • Personal trainer: working with individuals in gyms or leisure centres
  • Sport development officer: promoting participation in sport and physical activity
  • Exercise referral coordinator: supporting people with health conditions through physical activity
  • Strength and conditioning coach: working with sports teams or academies
  • Sport and leisure centre assistant: entry-level role while studying further

What you could study next

This level 3 btec sport and exercise science qualification is widely accepted for entry to university. You could progress to a BSc in Sport and Exercise Science, Sports Coaching, Physiotherapy, or a related degree. A higher apprenticeship in sport and leisure is another route if you prefer to earn while you learn. Some graduates go on to postgraduate study in areas such as sports medicine or strength and conditioning.

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