Free Level 3 Sport and Physical Activity Course in York. Classes run at Askham Bryan College, full-time during the day over two years. You'll study a broad range of topics across the sports industry, from coaching and nutrition to anatomy, psychology, and fitness programming. The course includes specialist pathways in areas such as sport coaching, fitness and personal training, and sports rehabilitation. You'll also gain work experience and additional qualifications alongside your main studies. Entry requires four GCSEs at grade 4 or above, including two from English, Maths, or Science, or a suitable Level 2 vocational qualification at Merit or above.
Who this course is for
For those looking for level 3 practical courses in Sport
What you will learn
You'll develop knowledge of sports coaching principles and practice.
You'll study nutrition and its role in sport and physical performance.
You'll learn how to carry out fitness testing and design training programmes.
You'll explore sports injuries, including prevention and basic rehabilitation.
You'll study anatomy and physiology relevant to sport and exercise.
You'll apply psychology to understand performance and motivation in sport.
You'll analyse athletic performance using performance analysis techniques.
You'll examine ethics, values, and sport development within the wider sports industry.
How you will learn
You'll learn through classroom-based sessions at Askham Bryan College, combining theory with practical activity. Assessment includes coursework, practical tasks, and work experience placements. You'll also complete specialist pathway units that build industry-specific skills in areas such as fitness instruction, coaching, or sports rehabilitation. Additional qualifications are built into the programme alongside the main Extended Diploma.
What you will need to bring
The centre will provide most materials. Askham Bryan College will confirm anything else you need before you start.
Where next
Jobs you could do
Sports coach, supporting athletes or community groups in training
Fitness instructor, leading gym sessions or exercise classes
Personal trainer, designing programmes for individual clients
Sports development officer, promoting participation in local sport
Physical education teaching assistant, supporting PE in schools
Sports rehabilitation assistant, helping athletes recover from injury
Leisure centre assistant, working across sport and recreation facilities
What you could study next
Degree in Sport Science or Sports Coaching, building on your Level 3 Extended Diploma at university level
Level 4 Certificate in Personal Training, if you want to specialise in fitness and work with clients independently
PGCE or School Direct route into teaching, if you're interested in physical education as a career in schools
Level 3 NVQ in Active Leisure, Learning and Wellbeing, for a more work-based route into the leisure sector
