Free Level 3 Sport and Exercise Science Course in Eltham – Charlton Athletic Community Trust

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 Eltham. Classes run at Charlton Athletic Community Trust, 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 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 nutrition and its role in sport and physical performance.
  • You'll examine sports psychology and how the mind affects performance.
  • 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 final grade matters for university applications.

What you will need to bring

Sports kit may be required for practical sessions. Charlton Athletic Community Trust will confirm what you need before you start.

Where next

Jobs you could do

  • Sports coach, plans and delivers coaching sessions in clubs or schools.
  • Fitness instructor, leads group exercise classes or gym floor sessions.
  • Personal trainer, designs individual fitness programmes for clients.
  • Community sports development officer, promotes sport participation locally.
  • Sports administrator, supports the running of a sports club or organisation.
  • Physical education teaching assistant, supports PE lessons in a school setting.

What you could study next

  • A degree in Sport Science or Sports Coaching (Level 6), the natural next step if you achieve the required grade and UCAS points.
  • A foundation degree or HND in Sport (Level 5), a shorter higher education route into the sector.
  • A sports coaching apprenticeship, combining work and further study at Level 3 or Level 4.
  • A CIMSPA-endorsed personal training qualification, if you want to work as a personal trainer.

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