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Free Level 1 Sport Course in Ipswich – Suffolk New College

CostFREE
Duration1 year
LevelLevel 1
DeliveryClassroom based
Start14 Sep 2026
Study modeFull-time
AttendanceDaytime
Awarding bodyGateway Qualifications awarding body
Apply now →

About this course

Free Level 1 Sport Course in Ipswich. Classes run at Suffolk New College, full-time during the day.

The course runs over one year. You'll explore different roles in sport and public services through practical activities, guest speakers, and theory sessions. Units cover coaching, fitness, teamwork, and how the sport and leisure industry works. You'll also build skills in resilience and problem-solving.

You'll finish with a Gateway Qualifications Certificate in Sport, Fitness and Active Leisure.

Who this course is for

This course is a fantastic stepping-stone to help you progress on to a level 2 course, employment or an apprenticeship. You will learn new industry related skills and information by taking part in practical activities, listening to guest speakers and gain an insight in to the different roles and jobs within sport and public services. The course has an exciting blend of practical learning, theory and the development of wider skills such as confidence, resilience and ownership.

Entry requirements

Two GCSEs at Grade 1 including maths and/or English, or demonstrate the ability to work towards Level 1 in maths and English in an assessment.

What you will learn

  • You'll explore different roles and careers in sport and public services.
  • You'll develop practical coaching and leadership skills.
  • You'll learn how the sport and leisure industry is organised.
  • You'll take part in fitness and physical activity sessions.
  • You'll build teamwork, resilience, and communication skills.
  • You'll gain an understanding of health, safety, and wellbeing in sport.

How you will learn

You'll learn through a mix of practical sessions, classroom theory, and visits from guest speakers working in sport and public services. Assessment is through coursework and practical tasks rather than formal exams. Your progress is tracked throughout the year.

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, leads sessions for community or school groups.
  • Leisure centre assistant, supports activities and customers at a leisure facility.
  • Fitness instructor, guides clients through exercise programmes.
  • Sports development officer, promotes participation in local sport.
  • PE teaching assistant, supports physical education in a school setting.

What you could study next

  • Level 2 Certificate in Sport and Physical Activity, the natural next step after this sport qualification and opens more job roles.
  • Level 2 Diploma in Sport, a broader sport course covering coaching, fitness, and sport science.
  • Sports coaching apprenticeship, earn while you train with an employer in sport or leisure.
Apply on suffolk.ac.uk →
Apply now →

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