Free Level 3 Sport and Physical Activity Course in Newbury. Classes run full-time at Newbury College, five days a week during the day. The course runs for one year and covers both theory and practical sessions. You'll study anatomy and physiology, sports psychology, fitness testing, coaching techniques, nutrition, and how to organise and deliver sport and leisure events. Entry requirements ask for a GCSE grade 4 or above in PE or Sport, though a genuine interest in sport and a positive attitude matter most. If you haven't yet achieved grade 4 in English or Maths, you'll study those alongside your sport and physical activity classes.
Who this course is for
You'll have a keen interest in Sports and a passion to develop these skills further but have not studied Sport at GCSE level, this programme provides an excellent starting point. A keen interest in sport, fitness, and physical activity is essential for this programme. You should be comfortable with physical challenges and enjoy working as part of a team.
Entry requirements
Ideally you will have a GCSE grade 4 above in PE or Sport but an interest in Sport and a positive attitude to learning is a must. If a grade 4 has not been obtained in English and Maths then you will continue to study these alongside your sports course. This course is ideal for those that love Sport and like a challenge. This includes taking part in both practical and theory-based lessons in order to grow the skillset needed to be successful within Sport or a sports/fitness based environment.
What you will learn
You'll study anatomy and physiology and how the body responds to exercise and training.
You'll explore sports psychology and how mental factors affect performance.
You'll learn how to carry out fitness testing and design training programmes.
You'll develop coaching and mentoring techniques to support others in sport.
You'll practise leadership skills through planning and delivering sport and leisure activities.
You'll gain knowledge of nutrition and how it supports physical activity and performance.
You'll learn how the active leisure industry works and what career routes exist within it.
How you will learn
You'll learn through a mix of classroom theory and practical sport sessions. Assessment includes written assignments, practical observations, and project work. Each topic blends academic content with hands-on activity so you build knowledge and physical skills together. You may also take part in trips to sport facilities and venues as part of the course programme.
What you will need to bring
The centre will provide most materials. Newbury College will confirm anything else you need before you start. You should be prepared for the possibility of purchasing suitable sports clothing. Some trips to external sport facilities and venues may also involve additional costs, depending on the course plan.
Where next
Jobs you could do
Sports coach. Work with individuals or teams to develop their performance.
Fitness instructor. Lead exercise sessions in gyms or leisure centres.
Community sport development officer. Promote physical activity in local communities.
Personal trainer. Design and deliver one-to-one training programmes.
Leisure centre assistant. Support the day-to-day running of sport and fitness facilities.
Sports activity leader. Plan and run sport sessions for groups of all ages.
What you could study next
Level 3 NVQ in Sport and Active Leisure. A work-based qualification that builds on your Diploma with assessed practice in a real sport setting.
Level 4 Certificate in Coaching. A step toward senior coaching roles and working with performance athletes.
Foundation Degree or BA in Sport Science or Sports Coaching. Many universities accept a Level 3 Diploma as entry to a sport-related degree programme.
