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Free Level 3 Sport and Exercise Science Course in Manchester – Hough End Leisure Centre

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 Manchester. Classes run at Hough End Leisure Centre, 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, fitness training, and the science behind physical performance. The course covers both practical and theory work, giving you a solid grounding in the sport and physical activity sector. 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 study anatomy and physiology and how the body responds to exercise.
  • You'll develop sports coaching skills and learn how to plan and lead sessions.
  • You'll explore fitness testing, training principles, and programme design.
  • You'll learn about nutrition and its role in sport and physical performance.
  • You'll investigate the psychology of sport and how it affects performance.
  • You'll build knowledge of health, safety, and safeguarding in sport settings.
  • You'll research career opportunities and pathways in the sport and physical activity sector.

How you will learn

The course blends face-to-face classroom sessions with online study. You'll be assessed through assignments, practical tasks, and coursework throughout the two years. Assessment is ongoing rather than through a single final exam. Practical sessions will develop your coaching and fitness skills alongside the theory.

What you will need to bring

Sports kit may be required for practical sessions. Hough End Leisure Centre will confirm exactly what 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 and delivers one-to-one fitness programmes.
  • Community sport development officer, promotes physical activity in local communities.
  • Sports administrator, supports the running of a sports club or organisation.
  • Leisure centre assistant, works across fitness, reception, and activity areas.

What you could study next

  • A degree in Sport Science, Sports Coaching, or Physical Education (Level 6), the most common next step for learners who achieve the required grade and UCAS points.
  • A foundation degree or HND in Sport (Level 5), a shorter higher education route into sport roles.
  • A sports coaching apprenticeship, combining paid work with further structured training.
  • 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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