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Free Level 3 Sport Course in Ipswich – Suffolk New College – Daytime

CostFREE
Duration2 years
LevelLevel 3
DeliveryClassroom based
Start9 Sep 2026
Study modeFull-time
AttendanceDaytime
Awarding bodyPearson Edexcel awarding body
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About this course

Free BTEC National Extended Diploma in Sport in Ipswich. Classes run at Suffolk New College, full-time during the day.

The course covers sports science, coaching, sports psychology, sports injuries, and sports massage. You'll explore how the body works and how to support athletes and clients. The course takes one year to complete. You'll need five GCSEs at Grade 4 or above, including maths and English, or an equivalent Level 2 qualification.

You'll finish with a Pearson Edexcel Level 3 Extended Diploma in Sport.

Who this course is for

The study programme offers an extensive study of all sporting areas, including Coaching, Nutrition, Leadership, Fitness Testing and Training, and Anatomy and Physiology. You will have the opportunity to learn in the classroom and through practical sessions utilising the College’s fantastic facilities, and pursue work experience opportunities with our wide range of top employers such as Ipswich Town FC, and many more. Educational trips are arranged each year to widen the student experience through attendance at sports conventions and alternative sporting venues.

Entry requirements

Five GCSEs at Grade 4 or above including maths and/or English, or a Level 2 qualification plus maths and/or English at Grade 4 or above.

What you will learn

  • You'll study the principles of sports coaching and how to apply them.
  • You'll explore sports psychology and how the mind affects performance.
  • You'll learn about common sports injuries and how they are managed.
  • You'll develop knowledge of sports massage techniques.
  • You'll study anatomy and physiology relevant to sport and exercise.
  • You'll analyse fitness testing methods and how to use the results.
  • You'll investigate how to plan and deliver training programmes.

How you will learn

You'll learn through classroom sessions, practical workshops, and work experience placements. Assessment is through assignments, projects, and unit portfolios. There are no written exams for most units. Some units may include observed practical assessments. The college has links with employers such as Ipswich Town FC, giving you the chance to apply your learning in real settings.

What you will need to bring

The centre will provide most materials. Suffolk New College will confirm anything else you need before you start.

Where next

Jobs you could do

  • Sports coach, plans and delivers training sessions for individuals or teams.
  • Fitness instructor, leads group exercise classes in gyms or leisure centres.
  • Personal trainer, designs one-to-one fitness programmes for clients.
  • Gym instructor, supports members on the gym floor and with equipment.
  • Sports development officer, promotes participation in sport across communities.
  • Sports massage therapist, treats soft tissue injuries and supports recovery.

What you could study next

  • A degree in Sports Science or Sports Coaching, the natural next step if you want to specialise further.
  • A degree in Physiotherapy or Physical Education, for those interested in health and rehabilitation.
  • A Level 3 Personal Training Qualification, if you want to work as a personal trainer sooner.
  • A PGCE or teaching qualification, for those who want to teach sport in schools.
Apply on suffolk.ac.uk →
Apply now →

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