Free Level 3 BTEC National Extended Certificate in Sport Course in Bristol. Classes run at St Brendan's Sixth Form College, full-time during the day. The course takes one year and combines sport theory with practical elements, covering fitness, performance, and the study of sport across different contexts. It carries the same UCAS points as one A-level, so it supports applications to university as well as routes into the sports industry. You'll need five GCSEs at grade 4 or above, including grade 4 in GCSE English Language or English Literature.
Who this course is for
The sports courses offer a two year vocational course that leads to the equivalent of one or two A-levels (dependent on the size of qualification you choose to study). It is a theory course with some practical elements and gives you the tools to develop your own fitness and performance alongside the study of sport in various contexts. Those taking on the Diploma or Extended Certificate would typically be very interested in a career within the sports industry and be passionate about understanding a multitude of facets concerning sports development coaching and fitness. The vocational nature of this course enables learners to develop their sport specific knowledge alongside their main studies. During the course of their studies learners will be provided with the opportunity to enhance their learning and CV through a wide variety of activities such as sports development opportunities NGB Coaching Qualifications and Voluntary Work with our many sports providers. Students will also benefit from attending visits to sports and leisure venues and from receiving tuition/guest lectures from experts within the industry. All sport students are expected to gain further experience within sports enrichment at the college; whether it is playing with one of the many sports teams to gaining experience coaching or refereeing there are lots of great opportunities for you. Students will have an opportunity to develop their functional skills through the diversity of teaching methods used. This is inclusive of presentations leading sports sessions preparing reports to mention just a few. During the course students are charged for printing and revision books can be purchased. Contribution to the cost of the outdoor and adventurous unit is also expected for Diploma students. Costs for day trips which form a valuable part of the course which all students are expected to attend may also be charged.
Entry requirements
The minimum entry criteria for this course are five GCSEs at grade 4 or above or the equivalent from four subject areas including a grade 4 in GCSE English Language or English Literature.
What you will learn
You'll study the science behind human fitness and physical performance.
You'll explore sport in social, cultural, and historical contexts.
You'll develop your understanding of coaching, leadership, and sports development.
You'll analyse training principles and apply them to your own performance.
You'll examine sports psychology and its role in performance.
You'll investigate sports nutrition and its effects on the body.
You'll build skills in research, analysis, and written communication through sport-related topics.
How you will learn
You'll learn through classroom-based lessons, combining theory study with practical sessions. Assessment is through a mix of internally assessed assignments and externally set exams, depending on the unit. Assignments are completed over the course of the year and marked by the college, with some units assessed by Pearson Edexcel through set tasks or exams.
What you will need to bring
The centre will provide most materials. St Brendan's Sixth Form College will confirm anything else you need before you start.
Where next
Jobs you could do
Sports coach: plan and deliver sessions for clubs or schools.
Personal trainer: design fitness programmes for individual clients.
Fitness instructor: lead classes and support gym members.
Sports development officer: promote participation at community level.
PE teaching assistant: support physical education in schools.
Leisure centre assistant: coordinate activities and facilities.
Sports administrator: handle operations for clubs or organisations.
What you could study next
Foundation Degree or BA in Sport and Exercise Science: builds on the theory and practical knowledge from this qualification, leading to graduate-level roles in coaching, sport science, or health and fitness.
Level 3 Personal Training Qualification (e.g. Active IQ or CIMSPA-recognised): a vocational route into personal training alongside or after this course.
BTEC Higher National Certificate (HNC) in Sport: a Level 4 option if you want a shorter higher education route before entering the industry.
