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Free Level 3 Sport and Exercise Science Course in Brighton – Falmer Sports Complex, University of Sussex

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

About this course

Free Level 3 Sport and Exercise Science Course in Brighton. Classes run at Falmer Sports Complex, University of Sussex, 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 the psychology of sport and exercise. The course carries UCAS points, and most universities accept it for entry onto 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 develop knowledge of anatomy and physiology as they apply to sport and exercise.
  • You'll study the principles of sports coaching and how to apply them in practice.
  • You'll learn how to plan and deliver fitness sessions safely and effectively.
  • You'll explore sports nutrition and its role in performance.
  • You'll examine the psychology of sport, including motivation and mental preparation.
  • You'll carry out fitness testing and learn to analyse the results.
  • You'll investigate career and higher education opportunities in the sport and physical activity sector.

How you will learn

The course is delivered through a blend of face-to-face classroom sessions and online study. You'll be assessed through a combination of assignments, practical tasks, and coursework throughout the two years. There are no formal written exams; assessment is ongoing and portfolio-based.

What you will need to bring

Sports kit may be required for practical sessions. Falmer Sports Complex, University of Sussex will confirm exactly what you need before you start. A bursary may be available to help with costs if you are eligible.

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 and delivers one-to-one fitness programmes.
  • Sports development officer, promotes participation in sport at community level.
  • Leisure centre assistant, supports activities and operations at a sports facility.
  • Sports administrator, handles bookings, events, and coordination for a sports organisation.

What you could study next

  • A degree in Sport Science, Sports Coaching, or a related subject (Level 6), the natural next step using the UCAS points this qualification earns.
  • A foundation degree or HND in Sport (Level 5), a shorter higher education route into sport and fitness roles.
  • A sports coaching apprenticeship, combining paid work with structured training in a coaching environment.
  • A personal training qualification at Level 3, if you want to specialise in one-to-one fitness work.
Apply on scleducation.co.uk →
Apply now →

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