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 typically takes 11 months to complete. To enrol, you'll need to have already completed the BTEC National Extended Certificate in Sports Coaching and Development. You'll build on that foundation, covering careers in sport and active leisure, health and wellbeing, and developing coaching skills. The course also includes work experience, CV writing, and interview workshops to support your next steps.
Who this course is for
The BTEC National Diploma in Sports Coaching and Development is intended for post-16 students who want 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 have the added advantage of using the qualification to help them obtain part-time employment while studying.
Entry requirements
Students must have completed the BTEC National Extended Certificate in Sports Coaching and Development. Based off the Unit requirements for the 720 and 1080 GLH BTECs, we expect that students would top up to the corresponding second year programme. This is due to the number of units required to complete when topping up from the Extended Certificate to the Extended Diploma and students wanting to move to the Diploma from the Foundation Diploma would only do 1 mandatory unit of 180 GLH.
What you will learn
You'll develop practical coaching skills across a range of sport and physical activity settings.
You'll study careers in the sport and active leisure industry.
You'll explore the relationship between health, wellbeing, and sport.
You'll apply coaching knowledge in real work contexts.
You'll build essential employability skills valued by sport sector employers.
You'll gain experience through work placements to support your progression.
How you will learn
You'll learn through classroom-based sessions at Brighter Futures Fylde Campus, working with industry experts who contribute to the programme. Assessment follows the Pearson BTEC National framework, which uses a combination of assignments, projects, and applied tasks set in work-relevant contexts. There are no traditional written exams for most units. You'll also take part in work experience alongside your studies.
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. Work with individuals or teams in clubs or community settings.
Community sport development officer. Plan and deliver local sport participation programmes.
Fitness instructor. Lead sessions in gyms, leisure centres, or outdoor venues.
PE teaching assistant. Support physical education in schools.
Sport and leisure centre assistant. Coordinate activities and support participants.
Personal trainer. Deliver one-to-one fitness coaching, including self-employment.
What you could study next
BTEC National Extended Diploma in Sports Coaching and Development. A larger qualification that opens more routes into higher education.
Level 4 or degree-level Sports Coaching or Sport Science degree. The level 3 btec sports coaching and development qualification is recognised for UCAS points, supporting university applications in sport, coaching, or physical education.
Level 3 or 4 Personal Training qualification. Adds a fitness specialism alongside your coaching background.
