Free Level 3 BTEC National Foundation Diploma in Sport Course in Leigh. Classes run at Wigan and Leigh College Leigh Campus. This Pearson Edexcel qualification runs full-time over 35 weeks, with daytime classes. It covers sport performance, coaching, fitness, and the science behind athletic development. The course is mapped to the Sporting Excellence Apprenticeship Standard, though it is open to learners who are not on an apprenticeship. Entry requires a minimum of five GCSEs graded 9 to 4, including maths and English.
Who this course is for
The Pearson BTEC Level 3 National Extended Diploma in Sporting Excellence and Performance is a qualification for post-16 learners. The qualification is equivalent in size to three A levels. It is mapped to the Sporting Excellence Apprenticeship Standard. It is not exclusively for apprentices and may be used for a performer who is deemed to have the potential to be a professional in a sport that is unable to pay an apprentice wage. It may also be suitable for a performer whose second career choice is to work in the performance sport industry. The qualification will also enable a learner to progress to higher education as a secondary purpose. There are a wide range of optional units to choose from, enabling a learner to select additional specialisms to support progression to higher education, apprenticeships or to a US scholarship in a specific sport.
Entry requirements
A minimum of 5 GCSE subjects graded 9-4 or equivalent including maths and English.
What you will learn
You'll develop knowledge of sport performance and athletic excellence.
You'll study the principles of sports coaching and player development.
You'll explore anatomy, physiology, and how the body responds to exercise.
You'll learn how to plan and deliver sports sessions safely and effectively.
You'll examine sports psychology and the mental side of performance.
You'll build understanding of nutrition and its role in sport.
You'll study the sports industry, including career pathways and professional standards.
How you will learn
You'll learn through classroom-based sessions at Wigan and Leigh College Leigh Campus. Assessment is through a combination of internally assessed assignments and externally assessed units set by Pearson Edexcel. You'll produce written work, practical demonstrations, and project-based tasks throughout the course. There are no traditional written exams for all units, but some units include externally set assessments that you complete under timed conditions.
What you will need to bring
The centre will provide most materials. Wigan and Leigh College Leigh Campus will confirm anything else you need before you start.
Where next
Jobs you could do
Sports coach: plan and deliver sessions for clubs or community groups
Fitness instructor: support clients in gyms or leisure centres
Personal trainer: design individual training programmes
Sports development officer: promote participation at local or regional level
Performance analyst: track and review athlete data and statistics
Sports administrator: coordinate events, fixtures, and club operations
Teaching assistant (PE): support physical education in schools
What you could study next
HND or Foundation Degree in Sport and Exercise Science: a natural next step if you want to go deeper into the science of sport and performance.
Level 3 NVQ in Instructing Exercise and Fitness: adds a practical coaching qualification recognised by employers in gyms and leisure centres.
Degree in Sport Coaching, Physical Education, or Sports Science: for those aiming at graduate-level roles in sport, education, or research.
Sporting Excellence Apprenticeship: if you are performing at a high level and want to combine training with structured employment.
