Level 3 Sport and Physical Activity Course in Paignton. Classes run at South Devon College, part-time during the day, over one year. The course focuses on outdoor and adventure activities, covering the skills and knowledge needed to lead and instruct in environments like climbing, caving, and white-water paddling. You'll need Level 2 Maths and English, plus a minimum of five GCSEs at grade 4 or above including English or Maths. This level 3 sport and physical activity qualification is awarded by NCFE.
Who this course is for
If you have a passion for the outdoors and thrive on adventure, this course is your gateway to an exciting and dynamic career. The Level 3 Adventure Sport programme at South Devon College is designed for individuals who want to turn their love of outdoor activities into a profession that can take them across the globe. Whether you’re climbing mountain ranges, exploring caves, or paddling through white-water rapids, this course equips you with the skills, experience, and knowledge to lead and inspire others in a variety of adventure sport settings. Our former students have gone on to work across Europe and the USA, leading expeditions and instructing in a wide range of environments. Throughout your studies, you’ll develop expertise across multiple disciplines, including rock climbing, caving, kayaking, canoeing, and mountain biking. Alongside these, you’ll gain essential support skills such as leadership, fitness training, navigation, and outdoor first aid. Everything you learn is focused on preparing you for employment in the outdoor and adventure industry. By setting personal goals and choosing areas of focus, you can tailor the course to suit your interests and ambitions. Whether you're aiming to become a multi-discipline outdoor instructor or specialise in a specific activity, this course provides the flexibility to support your growth. You’ll be taught by an experienced team of outdoor professionals who bring real-world insights from careers spent working all over the world. This is a hands-on, outdoor-focused course with strong links to the workplace. You’ll combine practical learning with theoretical knowledge, building the confidence and competence to lead others safely and effectively in challenging environments. By the time you finish, you’ll be ready to step into an instructor role or progress onto higher-level study. Our goal is to give you more than just technical skills - we aim to prepare you for a long-term career in the adventure industry. You’ll als
Entry requirements
You will be required to have achieved Maths at Level 2, You will be required to have achieved English at Level 2, You should have a genuine interest in this subject, You will need to have achieved a minimum of 5 GCSEs at grade 4(C) or above including English or Maths
What you will learn
You'll develop the skills to lead and instruct outdoor adventure activities safely.
You'll learn how to plan and deliver sessions in environments such as climbing, caving, and white-water paddling.
You'll build knowledge of health, safety, and risk management in outdoor settings.
You'll study the principles of coaching and physical activity instruction.
You'll gain practical experience across a range of adventure sport disciplines.
You'll learn how to support participants of different abilities in physical activity settings.
How you will learn
Learning takes place in the classroom and in outdoor practical settings. You'll be assessed through a combination of practical assessments, written work, and portfolio evidence. Attendance is part-time during the day at South Devon College. Practical sessions take place in real outdoor environments relevant to the activities you're studying.
What you will need to bring
The centre will provide most materials. South Devon College will confirm anything else you need before you start. You may need appropriate outdoor clothing and footwear for practical sessions - the college will advise you on this.
Where next
Jobs you could do
Outdoor activity instructor. Lead sessions in climbing, kayaking, or caving.
Sports coach. Deliver coaching in community or club settings.
Physical education teaching assistant. Support PE lessons in schools.
Leisure centre supervisor. Oversee activities and facilities.
Adventure tourism guide. Lead groups on outdoor experiences at home or abroad.
Community sport development officer. Promote physical activity locally.
What you could study next
Level 3 NVQ in Instructing Physical Activity and Exercise. Builds on your practical skills for gym and fitness environments.
Level 4 Certificate in Education and Training. If you want to move into teaching or training others in sport and physical activity.
National governing body awards (such as Mountain Leader or BCU paddlesport qualifications). Sector-specific licences that employers in outdoor education often require alongside a sport and physical activity qualification.
