Free Level 3 Sport and Exercise Science Course in Needham Market

CostFREE
Duration1 year
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 Needham Market. Classes run at Needham Market Football Club, full-time during the day.

The course is free for 16 to 18 year olds who meet the eligibility criteria. You'll study the science behind sport and physical activity, exploring anatomy and physiology, coaching principles, sports psychology, and health and fitness. The course runs over one year and includes a blend of classroom and online learning. You can also earn UCAS points, which may support progression to higher education.

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 Diploma in Sport and Physical Activity.

Who this course is for

The NCFE Level 3 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.

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 sports psychology and how the mind affects performance.
  • You'll develop coaching skills and learn how to plan and deliver sessions.
  • You'll investigate health, fitness, and physical activity principles.
  • You'll examine career opportunities across the sport and physical activity sector.
  • You'll build practical skills that apply to coaching, instruction, and further study.

How you will learn

You'll learn through a blend of face-to-face classroom sessions and online study. Assessment is through a mix of coursework, practical tasks, and written assignments. Your progress is assessed throughout the year rather than through a single final exam.

What you will need to bring

Sports kit may be required. Needham Market Football Club will confirm exactly what you need before you start.

Where next

Jobs you could do

  • Sports coach, plans and delivers coaching sessions for individuals or teams.
  • Fitness instructor, leads exercise classes or gym-floor sessions.
  • Community sports development officer, promotes physical activity in local communities.
  • Personal trainer, works with clients one-to-one on fitness goals, though most employers expect additional personal training certification.
  • Sports administrator, supports the running of clubs or sporting organisations.
  • Teaching assistant in PE, supports physical education in a school setting.

What you could study next

  • NCFE Level 3 Extended Diploma in Sport and Physical Activity, an additional year of study that typically meets university entry requirements for sport-related degrees.
  • Bachelor's degree in Sport Science or Sports Coaching (Level 6), for those aiming at graduate-level roles in coaching, performance analysis, or sport development.
  • Level 4 Certificate or Diploma in Personal Training, for those moving into fitness instruction and personal training roles.

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