Free BTEC Level 3 Sports Coaching and Development Course in Halifax. Classes run full-time at Brighter Futures Halifax Rugby Campus, and the course takes 11 months to complete. This is the Pearson Edexcel BTEC National Extended Diploma, covering careers in sport and active leisure, health and wellbeing, and developing coaching skills. You'll apply your learning in real work contexts, supported by work experience, CV writing, and interview workshops. Note: entry to this Extended Diploma requires completion of the Pearson BTEC Level 3 National Foundation Diploma in Sports Coaching and Development.
Who this course is for
The Pearson BTEC Level 3 National Extended Diploma in Sports Coaching and Development is intended for post-16 learners wanting to progress directly to employment, including self-employment, in sports coaching and development roles. It is also suitable for those wishing to progress to higher education, where students would have the added advantage of using this qualification to obtain part-time employment while studying.
Entry requirements
Students must have completed the Pearson BTEC Level 3 National Foundation Diploma (540) in Sports Coaching and Development. Due to the Unit requirements for the 720 and 1080 GLH BTECs, we expect that students would top up to the corresponding 2nd year programme to what they've completed as any student wanting to move to the Diploma from the Foundation would only do 1 mandatory unit of 180 GLH and there are too many units to complete to move from the Extended Certificate to Extended Diploma.
What you will learn
You'll explore careers and employment pathways in the sport and active leisure industry.
You'll develop practical coaching skills to plan, deliver, and review sessions.
You'll study health, wellbeing, and how sport contributes to both.
You'll apply coaching knowledge in real work contexts through work experience placements.
You'll build employability skills including CV writing and interview technique.
You'll gain understanding of sports development principles and how they operate in practice.
How you will learn
The Pearson BTEC National Extended Diploma is assessed through a combination of internally assessed assignments and externally assessed units. Internally assessed work includes assignments, projects, and portfolios completed in the classroom. Externally assessed units are set and marked by Pearson Edexcel. Classes are delivered in person at the campus during the day, with industry experts contributing to programme delivery.
What you will need to bring
The centre will provide most materials. Brighter Futures Halifax Rugby Campus will confirm anything else you need before you start.
Where next
Jobs you could do
Sports coach, working with clubs, schools, or community groups
Community sports development officer, growing participation locally
PE teaching assistant, supporting physical education in schools
Leisure centre instructor, delivering fitness and activity sessions
Sports administrator, coordinating programmes and events
Personal trainer, once you add a fitness-specific qualification
What you could study next
Foundation Degree or BA in Sports Coaching or Sports Science. A natural next step into higher education, and the Extended Diploma is designed to support university applications.
Level 4 Certificate in Coaching (sport-specific). Deepens coaching practice in a chosen sport.
PGCE or School Direct (Physical Education). For those who want to move into teaching PE, after completing a relevant degree.
