Free Level 3 Sport and Physical Activity Course in Hereford. Classes run full-time at Herefordshire College, five days a week during the day. The course takes one year and covers sports coaching, fitness planning, rehabilitation programmes, and the physical and psychological make-up of athletes. You'll plan, deliver, and review coaching sessions and build practical skills across a broad range of sports settings. To join, you'll need at least five GCSEs at grade 4 or above, including English and maths, or a relevant Level 2 qualification at merit grade with good progress in English and maths.
Who this course is for
This is a popular Level 3 course that provides a broad range of experience in the sports industry. The course gives you the opportunity to enhance your theoretical knowledge and practical skillsets. We develop your confidence in a range of different scenarios, such as being able to plan, deliver and review sports coaching sessions, developing fitness plans, rehabilitation programmes, as well as your knowledge and understanding of the physical and psychological make up of athletes. This course offers the opportunity to join our Football Academy programme with Cheltenham Town FC. This qualification is the equivalent of up to 168 UCAS Points.
Entry requirements
A minimum of five GSCEs at grade 4, including English and/or maths or successful completion of a relevant Level 2 qualification at merit grade and good progress with English and maths, including attendance at the GCSE exams if applicable.
What you will learn
You'll plan, deliver, and review sports coaching sessions.
You'll develop fitness plans for individuals and groups.
You'll learn how to design and apply rehabilitation programmes.
You'll study the physical make-up of athletes, including anatomy and physiology.
You'll explore the psychological factors that affect athletic performance.
You'll build practical skills across a range of sports and physical activity settings.
How you will learn
You'll learn through a mix of classroom sessions and practical activities at Herefordshire College. Assessment includes written assignments, practical observations, and portfolio work. You'll be assessed on your ability to plan and deliver coaching sessions, as well as your theoretical understanding of sport science topics. Some units may include presentations or reflective journals.
What you will need to bring
The centre will provide most materials. Herefordshire College will confirm anything else you need before you start.
Where next
Jobs you could do
Sports coach: plan and deliver sessions for clubs or schools.
Fitness instructor: lead exercise classes or gym-floor sessions.
Personal trainer: design and run one-to-one fitness programmes.
Community sports development officer: promote physical activity locally.
Sports administrator: support the running of sports clubs or facilities.
Leisure centre assistant: work across fitness, swimming, or recreation services.
What you could study next
Level 4 Certificate in Education and Training: if you want to move into coaching or teaching sport professionally.
Level 4 Higher National Certificate (HNC) in Sport: a higher-level route into sports science or management.
Foundation Degree in Sport: university-level study combining sport science, coaching, and business.
CIMSPA-endorsed personal training qualifications: if you want to specialise in fitness instruction.
