Free Level 3 Sport and Exercise Science Course in Skelmersdale – Greenhill Community Hub, Skelmersdale

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 Skelmersdale. Classes run at Greenhill Community Hub, Skelmersdale, full-time over two years. The course is free for 16 to 18 year olds who meet the eligibility criteria.

You'll study anatomy and physiology, sports coaching principles, fitness testing, nutrition, and sports psychology. The course also covers practical coaching skills and how physical activity supports health and wellbeing. You'll need five GCSEs at grade 4 or above, including English Language and Maths, to join.

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 practical sports coaching skills across a range of activities.
  • You'll study fitness testing methods and how to analyse results.
  • You'll learn about sports nutrition and its role in performance.
  • You'll examine sports psychology and how mindset affects athletes.
  • You'll investigate how physical activity contributes to health and wellbeing.
  • You'll build skills in planning and delivering coaching sessions.

How you will learn

You'll learn through a blend of classroom sessions and online study. Assessment includes assignments, practical tasks, and coursework completed throughout the two years. There are no formal written exams. Your work is assessed against set criteria, and grades range from Pass to Distinction Star. The qualification carries UCAS points, so your grade affects university entry.

What you will need to bring

Sports kit may be required for practical sessions. Greenhill Community Hub, Skelmersdale will confirm exactly what you need before you start. A bursary may be available if you need financial support with costs.

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 fitness programmes for clients. A Level 3 Personal Training qualification is also needed for most roles.
  • Community sport development officer, promotes physical activity in local communities.
  • Sports administrator, supports the running of a sports club or organisation.
  • Teaching assistant (PE), supports physical education in a school setting.

What you could study next

  • A degree in Sport Science, Sports Coaching, or Physical Education (Level 6), for roles in elite sport, research, or teaching. This qualification carries UCAS points to support your application.
  • A Level 3 Personal Training Qualification, needed alongside this Diploma for most personal trainer roles.
  • A Higher National Certificate in Sport (Level 4), a shorter higher education route before committing to a full degree.
  • A sports coaching apprenticeship, combining paid work with further structured training.

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