BTEC Level 3 Sport Course in Bolton for 16 to 18 Year Olds – The Sixth Form Bolton

CostFree for 16 to 18 year olds
Duration2 years
LevelLevel 3
DeliveryClassroom based
Start6 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? Check which courses you can do free.

About this course

Free BTEC Level 3 Sport Course in Bolton. Classes run at The Sixth Form Bolton, full-time over two years.

The course covers sport and exercise physiology, functional anatomy, applied psychology, biomechanics, nutrition, fitness testing, coaching, sports massage, and technology in sport. You study 13 units in total, with four assessed through external exams and the rest through coursework. To join, you'll need five GCSEs at grade 9 to 4, including grade 4 in English Language and at least grade 3 in Maths. A Merit in a relevant vocational Level 2 Diploma may also be accepted.

You'll finish with a Pearson Edexcel BTEC Extended Diploma in Sport at Level 3.

Who this course is for

Sport science is a growing area as clubs and athletes now employ sports scientists to help them reach their potential and be at the top of their game. In order to compete, athletes need to have more than just ability, they need knowledge and understanding of what the body is capable of and how to make this happen. Sport Science is a diverse area that includes anatomy, nutrition, rehabilitation, fitness testing, fitness training, coaching and technology in sport.

Entry requirements

Students will be expected to have five GCSEs at grade 9-4, or a Merit in a relevant vocational Level 2 Diploma (or equivalent). In addition, students will be expected to have GCSE grade 4 in English Language and a minimum of grade 3 in Mathematics.

What you will learn

  • You'll study sport and exercise physiology, learning how the body responds to physical activity.
  • You'll explore functional anatomy and how muscles, bones, and joints work together.
  • You'll apply sport and exercise psychology to understand performance and motivation.
  • You'll carry out field and laboratory-based fitness testing.
  • You'll learn coaching techniques for performance and fitness.
  • You'll study biomechanics and how movement affects athletic performance.
  • You'll examine nutrition for sport and exercise performance.
  • You'll explore sociocultural issues, technology in sport, and sports massage.

How you will learn

You'll study in the classroom full-time across two years. Four units are assessed through external exams set and marked externally. The remaining units are assessed through coursework completed throughout the course. You'll build a portfolio of evidence alongside your exam preparation.

What you will need to bring

The Sixth Form Bolton will confirm what you need before you start.

Where next

Jobs you could do

  • Fitness instructor, plans and leads exercise sessions for clients.
  • Gym instructor, supports members on the gym floor with safe training.
  • Personal trainer, designs individual programmes and coaches clients one to one. A Level 3 Personal Training qualification is also typically required.
  • Sports coach, works with teams or individuals to develop performance.
  • Sport and exercise scientist, supports athletes with data and testing. A degree in sport science is usually needed for this route.
  • Leisure centre assistant, works across fitness, swimming, and recreation facilities.

What you could study next

  • A degree in Sport Science or Sports Coaching, the natural next step for those wanting to work as a sport scientist or high-level coach.
  • A degree in Physical Education, for those interested in teaching sport in schools. Qualified Teacher Status is also required.
  • A Level 3 Award in Education and Training, useful if you want to coach or instruct and need a teaching qualification.
  • An HNC or HND in Sport, a shorter higher education route at Level 4 or Level 5.

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