Post A Job
Advertise Courses
Search Jobs
Search Courses

Level 3 Sport and Exercise Science Course in Darlington – Darlington College

CostFREE
Duration34 weeks
LevelLevel 3
DeliveryClassroom based
Start1 Sep 2026
Study modeFull-time
AttendanceDaytime
Awarding bodyNCFE awarding body
Apply now →

About this course

Level 3 Sport and Physical Activity Course in Darlington. Classes run full-time at Darlington College. It may be free if you are 16 to 18 years old on 31 August of the year you start. If you are 19 to 23 years old, fees may apply. This sport and physical activity qualification builds on the Level 3 Diploma in Sport and Physical Activity (Outdoor). You study six further units to complete the full Extended Diploma, which carries UCAS points for university entry. You must have completed the NCFE Level 3 Certificate in Sport and Physical Activity (Outdoor) to join, and you must be able to swim 25 metres. The course runs over 34 weeks.

Who this course is for

The NCFE Level 3 Extended Diploma in Sports and Physical Activity (Sport and Exercise Science) is a two-year study programme (equivalent to 3 A-Levels, with a maximum of 168 UCAS points available). However, the learner can leave after 1 year with a NCFE Level 3 Diploma in Sports and Physical Activity (Sport and Exercise Science), which is the equivalent to 1.5 A-Levels, and a maximum of 84 UCAS points.

This course is available with or without the MGFA (Football Academy) element.

Sport and exercise scientists continue to be a growing presence in the world of sport, and as we look to the future; all the signs suggest that their influence in sport will increase. It aims to provide a highly specialist work related qualification.

With this course you are given the opportunity to learn about sport science: in a practical and applied environment. The course will provide the opportunity to refine academic studies and improve personal sporting skills. It will prepare you for higher education or for employment in the sport and fitness industry. This course focuses on the preparation of potential university students and is equivalent to 3 A levels.

Entry requirements

Applicants must hold 5 GCSE's between grades 4-9. You must have passed GCSE English or maths at grade 4 to be enrolled on the course. It is advantageous to have passed English, maths and a science. You will be required to attend an interview for the course, and we could request a report from your previous school, college and/or employer.

What you will learn

  • You'll develop advanced knowledge of the outdoor activity and sport industry.
  • You'll build on vocational skills from your Level 3 Diploma study.
  • You'll complete six specialist units covering outdoor sport and physical activity practice.
  • You'll study content that supports progression to higher education in sport or outdoor education.
  • You'll develop the understanding needed to work professionally in outdoor and physical activity settings.

How you will learn

You'll learn through classroom-based sessions at Darlington College. Assessment is unit-by-unit across the six additional units that make up the Extended Diploma. Methods will include assignments, practical assessments, and portfolio work in line with NCFE requirements. Your swimming ability will be assessed during induction if you do not hold prior certification.

What you will need to bring

The centre will provide most materials. Darlington College will confirm anything else you need before you start. You will need to demonstrate that you can swim 25 metres, either during induction or through a prior certificate.

Where next

Jobs you could do

  • Outdoor activity instructor, leading sessions in climbing, kayaking, or similar
  • Sports coach, working with community or school groups
  • Fitness instructor, delivering exercise sessions in leisure settings
  • Outdoor education assistant, supporting learning in nature-based environments
  • Sports development officer, promoting physical activity in local communities
  • Recreation assistant, coordinating activities at leisure centres or holiday parks

What you could study next

  • Foundation Degree or BA in Outdoor Education or Sport and Exercise Science. The Extended Diploma carries UCAS points, so you can apply to university directly.
  • Level 4 Certificate in Education and Training. Useful if you want to teach or instruct in further education or community settings.
  • National governing body awards in specific outdoor activities (such as kayaking, climbing, or mountain leadership) to add specialist, employer-recognised qualifications to your CV.
Apply on darlington.ac.uk →
Apply now →

Related courses at Darlington College

More courses near you