Free Level 3 Sport and Exercise Science Course in Budleigh Salterton – Bicton College – Daytime

CostFREE
Duration1 year
LevelLevel 3
DeliveryClassroom based
StartFlexible
Study modeFull-time
AttendanceDaytime
Awarding bodyNCFE awarding body

About this course

Free Level 3 Sport and Exercise Science Course in Budleigh Salterton. Classes run at Bicton College, full-time during the day.

The course covers the science behind sport and physical activity, alongside practical coaching and leadership skills. You'll spend time at local venues and on residential expeditions, putting theory into practice. The course takes one year to complete.

You'll need four or more GCSEs at Grade 4 or above, including English and/or Maths, or a relevant Level 2 qualification with equivalent grades. You'll finish with an NCFE Extended Diploma in Sport and Physical Activity at Level 3.

Who this course is for

If you want a career in the outdoor industry this diploma combines practical activity days with the theory behind safe effective outdoor leadership. You will build technical ability coaching confidence and leadership skills while working in local venues and on residential expeditions that mirror industry expectations.

Entry requirements

Entry requirements for external applicants and school leavers

  • Four or more GCSEs at Grade 4 or above including English and/or Maths, or successful completion of a relevant Level 2 qualification AND a grade 4 or above in English and/or Maths.
  • Functional Skills Level 2 in English and/or Maths will be considered as alternatives to GCSE, but a GCSE resit may be required depending on grade.

What you will learn

  • You'll study the anatomy and physiology that underpins sport and exercise performance.
  • You'll explore sports psychology and how the mind affects athletic performance.
  • You'll learn how to plan and deliver coaching sessions safely and effectively.
  • You'll develop outdoor leadership skills through practical activity days and residential expeditions.
  • You'll apply exercise science principles to training programme design.
  • You'll build knowledge of health, fitness, and lifestyle factors that affect physical activity.

How you will learn

You'll learn through a mix of classroom sessions, practical activity days, and residential expeditions at local venues. Assessment includes assignments, practical observations, and project work. You'll be assessed on both your theoretical knowledge and your ability to apply skills in real coaching and leadership situations.

What you will need to bring

The centre will provide most materials. Bicton College will confirm anything else 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.
  • Outdoor activity leader, guides groups through outdoor pursuits safely.
  • Community sport development officer, promotes physical activity in local areas.
  • Sports development assistant, supports participation programmes at local level.

What you could study next

  • Level 4 Certificate in Education and Training, useful if you want to move into coaching or teaching roles.
  • Foundation Degree in Sport Science or Coaching, a higher-level route into sports science or performance analysis.
  • CIMSPA-endorsed personal training qualifications, for those focusing on fitness and personal training careers.
  • Degree in Sport and Exercise Science, for deeper study of physiology, biomechanics, and performance.

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