Free BTEC Level 3 Sport and Exercise Science Course in Ipswich – Suffolk New College

CostFREE
Duration2 years
LevelLevel 3
DeliveryClassroom based
Start9 Sep 2026
Study modeFull-time
AttendanceDaytime
Awarding bodyPearson Edexcel awarding body

About this course

Free BTEC Level 3 Sport and Exercise Science Course in Ipswich. Classes run full-time at Suffolk New College, daytime, over one year. You'll study topics including sports injuries, sports massage, psychology, and coaching. The course covers a broad range of subjects that connect directly to careers in sport and health. It also gives you a strong foundation for degree-level study in a sport-related subject. To apply, you'll need five GCSEs at grade 4 or above, including maths and/or English, or a Level 2 qualification with maths and/or English at grade 4 or above.

Who this course is for

Sports Science provides the perfect pathway to studying a sport-related subject at University. This diverse course explores a number of high profile topics linked to extremely rewarding job roles in areas including Sports Massage, Sports Injuries, Psychology, and Coaching. Students may also pursue work experience opportunities with our wide range of top employer links such as Ipswich Town FC, and many more.

Entry requirements

Five GCSEs at Grade 4 or above including maths and English, or a Level 2 qualification plus maths and English at Grade 4 or above.

What you will learn

  • You'll explore the science behind human movement and physical performance.
  • You'll study sports injuries, including how they occur and how they are managed.
  • You'll learn the principles of sports massage and its role in recovery.
  • You'll examine sports psychology and how the mind affects athletic performance.
  • You'll develop knowledge of coaching methods and how to apply them.
  • You'll investigate exercise physiology and how the body responds to training.
  • You'll build understanding of anatomy and physiology relevant to sport.

How you will learn

You'll learn through classroom-based sessions at Suffolk New College. The BTEC National Extended Diploma is assessed through a combination of coursework assignments and external examinations. Assignments are set by Pearson Edexcel and assessed internally, with some units externally assessed. You'll produce written reports, practical tasks, and presentations throughout the course.

What you will need to bring

The centre will provide most materials. Suffolk New 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.
  • Fitness instructor. Support clients with exercise programmes in gym settings.
  • Sports massage therapist. Help athletes recover and manage soft tissue injuries.
  • Personal trainer. Design and deliver one-to-one fitness programmes.
  • Sports development officer. Promote participation in sport at community level.
  • Exercise referral specialist. Support clients referred by health professionals.
  • Sports administrator. Coordinate events, fixtures, and club operations.

What you could study next

  • BSc (Hons) Sport and Exercise Science. The level 3 btec sport and exercise science qualification is widely accepted as entry for degree programmes in sport, exercise science, and related subjects.
  • BSc (Hons) Sports Coaching or Physical Education. A natural next step if coaching is your focus.
  • Level 4 Certificate in Personal Training. A shorter vocational route into fitness instruction if you prefer work-based progression.

Related courses at Suffolk New College

More courses near you