Free Level 3 Sport and Physical Activity Development Course in Plymouth. Classes run at Lipson Co-operative Academy, full-time during the day. The course is free if you're enrolled at the academy and aged 16 or 17. If you're joining from another school, fees apply. This two-year sport and physical activity development qualification is equivalent to three A levels. It covers the knowledge and skills needed for a career in the sports industry, and can also prepare you for an apprenticeship or higher education. You'll need four or five GCSEs at grades 9 to 4, including English, maths and science.
Who this course is for
If you enjoy sport and want to develop a career in the sports industry then this course provides an introduction to the knowledge and skills you'll need. Equivalent to 3 A levels, it can prepare you for employment or an apprenticeship in the sports industry. When studied alongside other level 3 qualifications it can be used as a stepping stone to higher education.
Entry requirements
4-5 GCSE's grades 9-4 (A*-C) including English, maths and science. You don't need to have studied a sports related qualification previously.
What you will learn
You'll study the principles of sport and physical activity development
You'll explore how to plan and deliver sport and physical activity sessions
You'll learn about anatomy, physiology and how the body responds to exercise
You'll develop knowledge of sports coaching and leadership
You'll examine health, fitness and wellbeing in relation to physical activity
You'll investigate how sports organisations and the sports industry operate
You'll build skills in analysing and improving sports performance
How you will learn
You'll learn through classroom-based lessons at Lipson Co-operative Academy. Assessment is through a mix of coursework assignments and externally assessed units set by OCR. You'll complete practical and written tasks throughout the two years. Some units are assessed by your centre and moderated by OCR; others are assessed through timed exams or set tasks marked externally.
What you will need to bring
The centre will provide most materials. Lipson Co-operative Academy will confirm anything else you need before you start.
Where next
Jobs you could do
Sports coach, planning and delivering sessions for clubs or schools
Fitness instructor, supporting clients in gyms or leisure centres
Community sport development officer, growing participation locally
Personal trainer, working with individuals on health and fitness goals
Sports administrator, supporting the running of sports organisations
Leisure centre assistant, coordinating activities and facilities
Sports development officer, working with local authorities or charities
What you could study next
Degree in Sport Science, Sports Coaching, or Physical Education at university. This Extended Diploma is equivalent to three A levels and meets entry requirements for many degree programmes.
Higher National Certificate (HNC) or Higher National Diploma (HND) in Sport. A shorter higher education route if you want to specialise before committing to a full degree.
Sports coaching or fitness apprenticeship. A work-based route into the industry if you want to earn while you train.
