Level 3 Sport and Physical Activity Course in Norwich. Classes run at Easton College, full-time during the day over two years. If you're 16 to 18 years old on 31 August before your course starts, tuition fees are free. If you're 19 or over, fees may apply. This sport and physical activity qualification is delivered on a 200-hectare Norfolk countryside campus, combining theory with practical outdoor experience. You'll develop coaching and leadership skills across activities such as paddlesport, climbing, mountain biking, surfing, and bushcraft.
Who this course is for
Whether you want to become a paddlesport coach, surfing instructor or have an interest in mountain biking, climbing or bushcraft, our outdoor leadership courses could be for you! They're delivered at our Easton College campus set in 200ha of Norfolk countryside. Our Outdoor Leadership courses are designed to ensure you get a range of theory and practical hands on experience, to develop the future guides and coaches for the outdoor industry. With specialist equipment and access to Norfolk's stunning waterways, woodland landscapes and East coast surf, you will be able to experiment with a variety of water and adventure sports such as paddleboarding, kayaking, surfing and mountain biking. You will also have the opportunity to develop your land based and bushcraft skills by completing a variety practical assessments and expeditions, that have included a 48 hour bush craft survival assessment. Our Outdoor Leadership courses give you access to expert tutoring and support with teachers and coaches who have many years experience in a variety of roles in the outdoor industry including management to Olympic development. They will guide you to gain practical, technical and tactical skills that will be invaluable for any career path you choose to follow within the outdoor industry. Applicants must demonstrate a commitment to the course and show some understanding of the industry. Due to the nature of the course, all applicants must be prepared to participate in outdoor, adventurous activities in all weathers. For information on activities you could get up to on the course check out our Outdoor Leadership CCN Instagram page. For example how to boil water in a paper bag, one match fire and how to fit a harness. In past years 100% of students have progressed onto jobs or higher education in the outdoor adventure industry. Jobs include PGL coaches, instructors, outward bound leaders in the UK and abroad, around a third of students progress onto university based courses.
Entry requirements
Academic Requirements:- � Achieve 4 GCSE's at grade 4 including English Language OR � Level 2 in a related subject at Merit or above (including an English or Maths qualification at 4 or above). Additional Requirements:- � Completion of online �Easton Applicant Information Form� via the QR Code � A reference � Attendance at a Curriculum Taster Day � Completion of Summer Task (which you will receive on your Taster Day). � You will also need to be able to swim 200m in 5 minutes due to the na
What you will learn
You'll develop coaching and instructing skills across a range of outdoor activities including paddlesport, surfing, and climbing.
You'll build outdoor leadership knowledge to guide and support participants safely.
You'll apply theoretical understanding of sport and physical activity in practical settings.
You'll learn bushcraft and mountain biking skills as part of your practical training.
You'll gain experience planning and delivering activity sessions in real outdoor environments.
You'll develop your understanding of health, safety, and risk management in outdoor contexts.
How you will learn
You'll learn through a mix of classroom sessions and hands-on practical activity at the college's outdoor facilities. Assessment includes coursework, practical assessments, and an industry week away where you apply your leadership skills in the field. Teaching is delivered by practitioners with direct industry experience.
What you will need to bring
The centre will provide most materials. Easton College will confirm anything else you need before you start. You will need to be able to swim 200 metres in under five minutes, as some activities take place near water.
Where next
Jobs you could do
Outdoor activity instructor, leading sessions in climbing, paddlesport, or similar
Paddlesport coach, working with groups on rivers or open water
Surfing instructor, teaching beginners and improvers at surf centres
Mountain biking guide, leading trail rides and skills sessions
Sports coach, supporting athletes in community or club settings
Outdoor education assistant, working in schools or youth organisations
Bushcraft leader, delivering nature and survival skills programmes
What you could study next
Level 3 NVQ in Coaching, Teaching and Instructing: deepen your practical coaching credentials for employment in sport and leisure.
Level 4 Certificate in Education and Training: if you want to teach sport or outdoor activities in a college or training setting.
Foundation Degree in Outdoor Education or Sport Coaching: a higher education route building on your Level 3 sport and physical activity qualification toward graduate-level roles.
