Free Level 3 Sport and Exercise Science Course in Sudbury – AFC Sudbury

CostFREE
Duration2 years
LevelLevel 3
DeliveryClassroom based
Start3 Sep 2027
Study modeFull-time
AttendanceDaytime
Awarding bodyNCFE awarding body

About this course

Free Level 3 Sport and Exercise Science Course in Sudbury. Classes run at AFC Sudbury, full-time over two years. The course is free for 16 to 18 year olds who meet the eligibility criteria.

You'll study sport science, coaching principles, anatomy and physiology, fitness testing, and physical activity promotion. The course carries UCAS points, and most universities accept it for entry onto sport-related degree courses. You'll need five GCSEs at grade 4 or above, including English Language and Maths, to meet the entry requirements.

You'll finish with an NCFE Level 3 Extended Diploma in Sport and Physical Activity.

Who this course is for

The NCFE Level 3 Extended Diploma in Sport and Physical Activity (Sports Coaching) is intended for learners aged 16 and over and provides the knowledge, skills and understanding required within the sport and physical activity sector. It will also allow learners to gain transferable skills that can be applied to the workplace or further study and support learners interested in progressing to higher education.

Entry requirements

Five GCSEs at grade 4 or above, where possible, including English Language and Maths

What you will learn

  • You'll explore anatomy and physiology and how the body responds to exercise.
  • You'll develop sports coaching skills and learn how to plan and deliver sessions.
  • You'll study fitness testing methods and how to analyse results.
  • You'll learn about nutrition and its role in sport and physical performance.
  • You'll investigate how to promote physical activity and healthy lifestyles.
  • You'll build practical skills through hands-on sport and physical activity work.
  • You'll research career opportunities and pathways in the sport sector.

How you will learn

You'll learn through a blend of classroom sessions and online study. Assessment combines coursework assignments, practical assessments, and project work. You'll apply your knowledge in practical sport and coaching contexts throughout the two years.

What you will need to bring

Sports kit is likely to be required for practical sessions. AFC Sudbury will confirm exactly what you need before you start.

Where next

Jobs you could do

  • Sports coach, plans and delivers coaching sessions for clubs or schools.
  • Fitness instructor, leads group exercise classes or gym floor sessions.
  • Personal trainer, designs individual training programmes for clients.
  • Sports development officer, promotes participation in sport at community level.
  • Leisure centre assistant, supports activities and operations at a leisure facility.
  • Physical education teaching assistant, supports PE lessons in a school setting.

What you could study next

  • A degree in Sport Science, Sports Coaching, or a related subject (Level 6), the most common next step after this Extended Diploma.
  • A foundation degree or HND in Sport (Level 5), a shorter higher education route into the sector.
  • A sports coaching or fitness apprenticeship, combining work and further study.
  • A PGCE or School Direct route into PE teaching, which requires a degree first.

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