Free Level 3 Personal Trainer Course in Widnes. Classes run full-time at Cronton Sixth Form College, five days a week during the day. The course runs for one year and is structured in two stages. In the first half of the year, you study a Level 2 Fitness Instructor qualification covering gym-based exercise. The second half builds on that foundation with the Level 3 personal trainer qualification, covering programming, client assessment, and advanced training methods. Entry requires five GCSEs at grades 9 to 4, including English Language at grade 4, Maths at grade 3, and Science at grade 4.
Who this course is for
Aimed at school leavers. The course is an intense one year course. In the first half of the academic year the Level 2 Fitness Instructor (Gym-Based Exercise) will be studied and achieved. The second half of the year builds on the skills and knowledge developed in the first half of the year by focussing on the Level 3 Diploma in Personal Training. This qualification is industry recognised and allows you to access employment as a fully qualified Fitness Instructor and Personal Trainer, also opening doors such as employment in the strength and conditioning industry. The course covers a wide range of subjects including both theory and practical work.
Entry requirements
5 GCSEs at grades 9-4 including English Language preferably Science and Maths. At Cronton, we look at the overall GCSE profile. A student on a Level 3 course should have achieved 9-4 grades in their GCSEs. English Language 4. Maths 3. Science 4.
What you will learn
You'll learn how to plan and deliver safe gym-based exercise sessions for clients.
You'll develop skills in assessing a client's fitness levels and health history.
You'll learn how to design personalised training programmes for different goals.
You'll study anatomy and physiology as they apply to exercise and movement.
You'll learn how to motivate and coach clients through one-to-one personal training.
You'll cover nutrition principles and how they support fitness goals.
You'll develop the knowledge needed to work as a qualified fitness instructor and personal trainer.
How you will learn
You'll learn through classroom sessions, practical gym-based work, and supervised client sessions. Assessment includes written assignments, practical observations, and knowledge tests. The course is structured so the Level 2 Fitness Instructor element is assessed and completed in the first half of the year, with the Level 3 personal training units assessed in the second half.
What you will need to bring
The centre will provide most materials. Cronton Sixth Form College will confirm anything else you need before you start.
Where next
Jobs you could do
Personal trainer. Work one-to-one with clients in gyms or independently.
Gym instructor. Lead gym floor sessions and inductions for members.
Fitness instructor. Deliver exercise programmes in leisure centres or health clubs.
Group exercise instructor. Run fitness classes with additional specialist training.
Sports centre assistant. Support facility operations and member fitness goals.
What you could study next
Level 4 Certificate in Personal Training. Deepens your knowledge of advanced client programming and specialist populations, and is recognised by industry bodies such as CIMSPA.
Level 3 Diploma in Exercise Referral. Allows you to work with clients referred by GPs or health professionals.
Higher National Certificate (HNC) in Sport and Exercise Science. A higher-level route if you want to move into coaching, sports science, or health promotion.
