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Free Level 3 Sport and Physical Activity Course in Bury

CostFREE
Duration2 years
LevelLevel 3
DeliveryClassroom based
Start1 Sep 2026
Study modeFull-time
AttendanceDaytime
Awarding bodyOCR awarding body
Apply now →

About this course

Free Level 3 Sport and Physical Activity Course in Bury. Classes run at Holy Cross Sixth Form College, full-time over two years.

You'll study anatomy and physiology, sports coaching and leadership, and how sports organisations work in the UK and beyond. The course also covers strategies for increasing participation in the course. You're assessed through written exams and ongoing practical and theoretical work throughout both years.

Entry requires GCSE grade 4 in English and a grade 4 or above in GCSE Science. You'll finish with the Cambridge Technical Extended Certificate in Sport and Physical Activity, equivalent to one A Level.

Who this course is for

If you enjoy sport and want to develop a career in the sports industry then this course provides an introduction to the knowledge and skills you'll need. Equivalent to 1 A level, it can prepare you for employment or an apprenticeship in the sports industry. When studied alongside other level 3 qualifications it can be used as a stepping stone to higher education.

Entry requirements

General College entry requirements.

GCSE grade 4 in English. You must have grade 4/4 or above in GCSE Combined Science or 4/4/3 from separate Science GCSEs.

If you have studied GCSE PE or a BTEC equivalent, a grade 4/pass is required. You must have a keen interest in sport and be willing to take part in coaching, sports participation and leadership activities.

What you will learn

  • You'll explore how physical activity affects the body, including anatomy and physiology.
  • You'll develop sports coaching and leadership skills.
  • You'll study how sports organisations operate in the UK and internationally.
  • You'll learn about strategies to increase participation in sport and physical activity.
  • You'll take part in practical coaching, sports participation, and leadership activities.
  • You'll use gym equipment to support your understanding of exercise science.

How you will learn

The course combines classroom theory lessons with practical sessions in the sports hall and onsite gym. Assessment is through external written examinations and ongoing practical and theoretical coursework across both years of study. You'll learn in a PE theory classroom as well as active sport settings.

What you will need to bring

The centre will provide most materials. Holy Cross Sixth Form College will confirm anything else 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 personal training in a gym or leisure centre.
  • Leisure centre assistant, supports day-to-day operations at a sports or leisure facility.
  • Sports development officer, works to increase participation in sport within a community.
  • PE teaching assistant, supports physical education lessons in a school setting.

What you could study next

  • A Level Physical Education, deepens academic study of sport science and can support university applications.
  • Level 3 Personal Training Qualification, a route into self-employed or gym-based fitness work.
  • Degree in Sport Science or Sports Coaching, for those looking to specialise further at university.
  • Sports Coaching Apprenticeship, combines work-based learning with a recognised qualification.
Apply on holycross.ac.uk →
Apply now →

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