Free Level 3 Sport and Exercise Science Course in Derby

CostFREE
Duration1 year
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 Derby. Classes run at Derby Rugby Club, full-time during the day.

You'll study the science behind sport and physical activity, develop practical coaching skills, and explore how the body responds to exercise. Units cover anatomy and physiology, sports psychology, coaching practice, and health and fitness. The course earns UCAS points, which can support a university application alongside further study.

You'll need five GCSEs at grade 4 or above, including English Language and Maths, where possible. You'll finish with an NCFE Level 3 Diploma in Sport and Physical Activity.

Who this course is for

The NCFE Level 3 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.

Entry requirements

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

What you will learn

  • You'll study anatomy and physiology and how the body responds to physical activity.
  • You'll develop practical sports coaching skills and techniques.
  • You'll explore sports psychology and how the mind affects performance.
  • You'll learn about health, fitness, and exercise programming.
  • You'll investigate career and study opportunities in the sport and physical activity sector.
  • You'll build transferable skills that apply to employment, apprenticeships, or further study.

How you will learn

The course blends face-to-face classroom sessions with online study. You'll learn through a mix of practical coaching activities, theory lessons, and independent work. Assessment is through coursework, practical tasks, and assignments completed throughout the year. There are no formal written exams.

What you will need to bring

Sports kit may be required. Derby Rugby Club will confirm what you need before you start.

Where next

Jobs you could do

  • Sports coach, plans and delivers coaching sessions for a club or school.
  • Fitness instructor, leads exercise classes or gym-floor sessions.
  • Community sports development officer, promotes physical activity in local communities.
  • Personal trainer, works with individual clients on fitness goals, usually requires additional certification.
  • Sports administrator, supports the running of a sports organisation or club.
  • Teaching assistant (PE), supports physical education in a school setting.

What you could study next

  • NCFE Level 3 Extended Diploma in Sport and Physical Activity, one additional year of study that strengthens your UCAS points for university entry.
  • Higher National Certificate (Level 4) in Sport, a step toward degree-level study in sport science or coaching.
  • Bachelor's degree in Sport Science or Sports Coaching (Level 6), the route into graduate roles in performance sport, teaching, or sport development.
  • Sports coaching apprenticeship, earn while you develop coaching skills in a workplace setting.

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