Free Level 3 Sport and Exercise Science Course in Walthamstow – Wadham Lodge Sports Ground

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 Walthamstow. Classes run at Wadham Lodge Sports Ground, 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 to plan and deliver sessions. It 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 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 study the principles of sports coaching and how to apply them in practice.
  • You'll learn how to plan, deliver, and evaluate coaching sessions.
  • You'll develop knowledge of fitness testing and how to interpret results.
  • You'll study sports nutrition and its role in performance.
  • You'll examine sports psychology and how it affects athletes and participants.
  • You'll build transferable skills for employment, apprenticeships, or higher education.

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 coursework, practical tasks, and written assignments. Assessment is ongoing throughout the two years rather than through a single final exam.

What you will need to bring

Sports kit may be required. Wadham Lodge Sports Ground will confirm what you need before you start. A bursary scheme is available for eligible learners who need financial support.

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, works one-to-one with clients on fitness goals. Note: most personal trainers also hold a Level 3 Personal Training qualification.
  • Sports development officer, supports participation programmes in a local authority or charity.
  • Leisure centre assistant, supports operations at a gym or sports facility.
  • Community sports activator, promotes physical activity in local communities.

What you could study next

  • A degree in Sport Science, Sports Coaching, or Physical Education (Level 6), the natural next step using the UCAS points this Diploma earns.
  • A foundation degree or HND in Sport (Level 5), a shorter higher education route if a full degree is not your immediate goal.
  • A Level 3 Personal Training Qualification, if you want to work as a personal trainer alongside or instead of further study.
  • A sports coaching apprenticeship, combining work and study at Level 3 or Level 4.

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