Free BTEC Level 3 Sports Coaching and Development Course in Wesham. Classes run at Brighter Futures Fylde Campus, full-time during the day. The course runs for 11 months and covers careers in the sport and active leisure industry, health and wellbeing, and developing coaching skills. You'll apply your knowledge in real work contexts, building the practical and employability skills the sport sector looks for. The course also includes work experience, CV writing, and interview technique support to help you move into employment or higher education. Entry 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 in the sport and active leisure industry.
You'll develop coaching skills and learn how to plan and deliver sessions.
You'll study health, wellbeing, and their relationship to sport and physical activity.
You'll apply your knowledge in real work contexts through practical tasks.
You'll build essential employability skills valued by sport sector employers.
You'll practise CV writing and interview techniques to support your next step.
How you will learn
The Pearson BTEC National Extended Diploma is assessed through a combination of internally assessed assignments and externally assessed units. Classroom-based learning covers theory and practical application. You'll complete assignments that demonstrate your understanding and skills across each unit. Some units are assessed by Pearson through set tasks or exams. Work experience placements support your practical development alongside classroom study.
What you will need to bring
The centre will provide most materials. Brighter Futures Fylde Campus will confirm anything else you need before you start.
Where next
Jobs you could do
Sports coach. Plan and deliver coaching sessions in your chosen sport.
Community sports development officer. Promote participation in sport locally.
Fitness instructor. Lead group or individual fitness sessions.
Sports development assistant. Support programmes that grow participation.
PE teaching assistant. Work alongside teachers in school sport settings.
Leisure centre supervisor. Oversee facilities and activities at a leisure centre.
What you could study next
Foundation Degree or BA in Sports Coaching or Sports Science. A natural next step if you want to deepen your knowledge and move into senior coaching or teaching roles.
Level 4 Certificate in Coaching. Specialist coaching qualifications in your sport, recognised by national governing bodies.
PGCE or School Direct (PE). If you want to qualify as a PE teacher, you'll need a degree first, then a teaching qualification.
