Free Level 3 Sport and Physical Activity Course in Saint Helens. Classes run full-time at Rainford Sixth Form, five days a week during the day. The course runs over 18 months. You'll study sport science, coaching, physical activity, and the wider sports industry, building the knowledge and practical skills employers look for. Entry requirements are discussed on an individual basis, though a grade 4 in Maths and English will support your application. The course includes direct job introduction opportunities in football coaching and the broader sports sector.
Who this course is for
Working in conjunction with schools and colleges of further education, this vocational course is devised by one of the leading specialists in World Coaching. Offering direct job introductions into football coaching and the wider sports industry, the industry recognised Level 2 and 3 courses are now run throughout the North West of England and Northern Ireland.?Direct job opportunities are part of the course ? UK and Worldwide?Open to males and females ages 16-19?100% success for jobs ? for the last 2 years every student that applied received professional International contract (recent course statistic)?Based at state-of-the-art sports facilities?Visits to professional Football Clubs and sports events?Practical sessions and classroom lessons?Guaranteed weekly work placement opportunities?Can combine with ?A? levels or BTEC qualifications (available at selected venues)?Exit routes to higher education for the more academic students?Devised by ex-international footballer and UEFA Pro Licence Coach, David Campbell?Opportunity for international study visits?One of the highest retention, attainment and progression figures in the UK?Additional FA qualifications available
Entry requirements
These will be discussed on an individual basis. However, grade 4 in Maths and English will support your application.
What you will learn
You'll explore the science behind sport and physical activity, including anatomy and physiology.
You'll develop coaching skills and learn how to plan and deliver sessions.
You'll study sports psychology and how it affects performance.
You'll learn about health, fitness, and the role of physical activity in wellbeing.
You'll examine how sports organisations and the wider industry operate.
You'll gain practical experience linked to coaching and sports leadership roles.
How you will learn
You'll learn through classroom sessions, practical activities, and coursework at Rainford Sixth Form. Assessment is through assignments, projects, and portfolio work rather than formal exams. You'll build evidence of your skills and knowledge throughout the course, with tutors guiding you at each stage.
What you will need to bring
The centre will provide most materials. Rainford Sixth Form will confirm anything else you need before you start.
Where next
Jobs you could do
Sports coach, working with community groups or schools
Football coach, delivering sessions at grassroots or academy level
Fitness instructor, supporting clients in gyms or leisure centres
Sports development officer, promoting physical activity in local communities
PE teaching assistant, supporting physical education in schools
Leisure centre assistant, coordinating activities and programmes
Personal trainer, working one-to-one with clients on fitness goals
What you could study next
Level 4 Certificate or Diploma in Sports Coaching or Sports Management, for those wanting to move into supervisory or specialist roles.
A degree in Sport Science, Physical Education, or Sports Coaching at university, building on the Extended Diploma as a recognised entry qualification.
A PGCE or School Direct route into teaching PE, for those aiming to qualify as a teacher.
