Free Level 3 Sport and Physical Activity Development Course in Nottingham

CostFREE
Duration2 years
LevelLevel 3
DeliveryClassroom based
Start4 Sep 2026
Study modeFull-time
AttendanceDaytime
Awarding bodyOCR awarding body

About this course

Free Level 3 Sport and Physical Activity Development Course in Nottingham. Classes run at Friesland Sixth Form, full-time over two years. This sport and physical activity development qualification covers anatomy and physiology, physiology of fitness, risk assessment in sport, biomechanical principles, nutrition, sports injuries and rehabilitation, and coaching and activity leadership. You'll study through a mix of theory and practical lessons. Entry is desirable with a BTEC or OCR Level 2 Merit in Sport, or a grade 5 in GCSE PE, along with a genuine interest in sport and commitment to coursework deadlines.

Who this course is for

Content includes principles of anatomy and physiology in sport, physiology of fitness, assessing risk in sport and an additional unit. The course is a mixture of theory and practical lessons.

Entry requirements

BTEC or OCR Level 2 Merit in Sport or 5 in GCSE PE is desirable. You must have a keen interest in sport and a commitment to meet coursework deadlines.

What you will learn

  • You'll study the principles of anatomy and physiology as they apply to sport and exercise.
  • You'll explore the physiology of fitness and how the body responds to training.
  • You'll learn how to assess and manage risk in sport settings.
  • You'll apply biomechanical principles to analyse and improve sporting technique.
  • You'll understand nutrition for sport and how diet affects performance.
  • You'll develop knowledge of sports injuries, prevention, and rehabilitation.
  • You'll practise sports coaching and activity leadership in practical sessions.
  • You'll complete coursework units alongside exam-based units across both years.

How you will learn

You'll learn through a combination of classroom theory and practical sessions. The Extended Diploma includes 17 units over two years. Four units are assessed by exam. The remaining 13 are assessed through coursework. Practical elements include leadership of activities, performance as part of a team, individual performance, outdoor and adventurous activities, and officiating. Lessons run at 12 per week in year one and 15 per week in year two.

What you will need to bring

The centre will provide most materials. Friesland Sixth Form will confirm anything else you need before you start.

Where next

Jobs you could do

  • Sports coach: plan and deliver coaching sessions for individuals or groups
  • Fitness instructor: lead exercise classes or gym-floor sessions
  • Personal trainer: design training programmes for individual clients
  • Sports development officer: promote participation in sport at community level
  • Activity leader: run physical activity sessions in schools or leisure settings
  • Sports administrator: support the running of clubs, events, or facilities
  • Outdoor pursuits instructor: lead activities such as climbing, kayaking, or orienteering

What you could study next

A Level 3 sport and physical activity development qualification at Extended Diploma level is recognised by universities as equivalent to three A Levels. You could progress to a degree in Sport Science, Sports Coaching, Physical Education, or Exercise Physiology. Alternatively, you could pursue a Level 4 or Level 5 qualification in coaching, fitness instruction, or sports management. Professional coaching awards from bodies such as UK Coaching are also a natural next step.

Related courses at Friesland Sixth Form

More courses near you