Free Level 3 Sport and Exercise Science Course in Chippenham

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 Chippenham. Classes run at Stanley Park Sports Ground, Chippenham, full-time over one year. Learners aged 19 or over may be eligible if they hold an Education, Health and Care Plan.

The course covers sports coaching, anatomy and physiology, fitness testing, and the principles of sport and exercise science. You'll explore career opportunities in the sport and physical activity sector and develop practical coaching and technical skills. Entry typically requires five GCSEs at grade 4 or above, including English Language and Maths.

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 develop knowledge of anatomy and physiology as it applies to sport and exercise.
  • You'll learn the principles of sports coaching and how to plan and deliver sessions.
  • You'll explore fitness testing methods and how to analyse results.
  • You'll study the psychology of sport and how it affects performance.
  • You'll investigate nutrition and its role in physical activity and recovery.
  • You'll develop practical skills in coaching and working with participants.
  • You'll research career and progression routes 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 a combination of assignments, practical observations, and coursework. Assessment is ongoing throughout the year rather than through a single final exam. Practical coaching sessions form a core part of the course.

What you will need to bring

Sports kit is likely to be required for practical sessions. Stanley Park Sports Ground, Chippenham will confirm exactly what you need before you start.

Where next

Jobs you could do

  • Sports coach, plans and delivers coaching sessions for a club or community programme.
  • Fitness instructor, leads exercise classes or gym-floor sessions for clients.
  • Community sports development officer, promotes participation in sport at a local level.
  • PE teaching assistant, supports physical education lessons in a school setting.
  • Leisure centre assistant, works across facilities including pools, gyms, and sports halls.
  • Personal trainer, works toward this role by pairing the Diploma with a Level 3 Personal Training qualification.

What you could study next

  • NCFE Level 3 Extended Diploma in Sport and Physical Activity, an additional year of study that opens a direct route to university and earns more UCAS points.
  • A foundation degree or bachelor's degree in Sport Science or Sports Coaching (Level 5 or Level 6), for those wanting to move into teaching, physiotherapy, or performance analysis.
  • A Level 3 Personal Training qualification, for those focusing on fitness instruction and one-to-one coaching.

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