Sport (=2 A Level)
BTEC Level 3 Sport National Diploma is an exciting vocational qualification for students who are passionate about sport, fitness and physical activity. Equivalent to two A-levels, this course combines theoretical study with practical learning, helping you develop a broad understanding of the sports industry while improving your own knowledge of fitness and performance.
The course is ideal if you're considering a future in coaching, sports development, fitness, teaching or other sport-related careers. At St Brendan's, you'll learn from experienced teachers, access excellent sports facilities and gain valuable experience that supports progression to university, apprenticeships and employment.
- Qualification
- BTEC
- Exam Board
- Pearson
- Duration
- 2 years
Why study Sport (=2 A Level) at St Brendan’s?
The National Diploma provides greater depth and breadth than the Extended Certificate, making it an excellent choice for students who are interested in a career within the sports industry and be passionate about understanding a multitude of facets concerning sports development, coaching and fitness.
At St Brendan's, you'll benefit from outstanding sports facilities, practical learning opportunities and links with sports providers. You'll develop leadership, coaching and organisational skills while exploring how sport impacts individuals, communities and businesses.
Entry requirements
- 5 GCSEs at grade 4 or above
- Including English Language or English Literature GCSE grade 4
- Maths GCSE at grade 3 or above
Course examination breakdown
What else do I need to know?
5 GCSEs at grade 4 or above
Including English Language or English Literature GCSE grade 4
Maths GCSE at grade 3 or above
Students will study the following units across the two years of their programme:
Anatomy and Physiology (exam)
Fitness Training and Programming for Health, Sport and Well-being (controlled assessment)
Investigating Business in Sport and the Active Leisure Industry (coursework unit)
Sports Leadership (coursework unit)
Professional Development in the Sports Industry (coursework unit)
Skill Acquisition in Sport (coursework unit)
Application of Fitness Testing (coursework unit)
Practical Sports Performance (coursework unit)
Principles and Practices for Outdoor and Adventurous Activities (coursework unit)
Skills Developed
Students will have an opportunity to develop their functional skills through the diversity of teaching methods used. This is inclusive of presentations, leading sports sessions, preparing reports to mention just a few.
During this course you will gain:
Coaching and leadership skills
Fitness testing and analysis
Teamwork and communication
Research and report writing
Planning and organisation
Professional practice
Independent learning
Presentation skills
You'll learn through a variety of methods, including:
Classroom-based lessons
Practical sports activities
Coaching and leadership sessions
Fitness testing activities
Group projects
Presentations and workshops
Independent research
Industry-related learning
Students are encouraged to work independently, develop self-management skills and actively participate in practical activities that support assessment and progression.
This course has both internally and externally assessed units. For the internally assessed units students will complete a range of assignments in each unit that ensure differentiated opportunity for success. Some assignments will require students to physically take part and/or lead sessions. The external assessments comprise of an exam and controlled assessments.
Sports students at St Brendan’s have access to an excellent range of facilities which are used to support your learning. These include a 4G football and rugby pitch, 4 outdoor floodlit netball/tennis courts and grass football pitches, multipurpose sports hall and fitness suite, teaching rooms and IT facilities.
During the course, students are charged for printing and revision books can be purchased. Payment for the cost of the outdoor and adventurous unit is also expected for Diploma students. Costs for day trips, which form a valuable part of the course which all students are expected to attend, may also be charged. Students are expected to bring a ring binder folder but will be given a set of dividers to help manage their work.
As this qualification is equivalent to two A-levels, it is normally studied alongside one additional qualification.
BTEC Level 3 Sport National Diploma supports progression to:
Sports Science degrees
Sports Coaching and Development degrees
Physical Education teaching pathways
Sports Therapy courses
Health and Fitness qualifications
Higher and degree apprenticeships
Employment within the sport, leisure and recreation industries
Former students have progressed to university, professional training and careers including Sports Therapy, Sports Development, Community Coaching and Fitness Instruction.
The course offers a wide range of enrichment opportunities, including:
Sports development projects
National Governing Body coaching qualifications
Sports leadership activities
Sports venue visits
Industry guest speakers
Coaching and refereeing opportunities
Participation in college sports teams
Work experience opportunities
These activities help strengthen your CV, university applications and career readiness.
Progression opportunities
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