Richmond upon Thames College | Top Academic and Vocational London College | Sport Development, Coaching and Fitness BTEC Level 3

Sport Development, Coaching and Fitness BTEC Level 3

This course will prepare you for a career in any area of the sport and leisure industry. This might include leisure centres, health clubs, gyms, sports clubs, theme parks or outward-bound centres. Individual group and project type experiments are carried out as part of the course. Practical sports take place on the college site or in nearby specialist facilities. Residential visits are included to enhance both theoretical and practical work. Sports nutrition, fitness testing, technological developments in sport and practical sports coaching are among the units delivered. This course is an alternative to A Levels for those who wish to pursue a career in the field of PE teaching, sports conditioning, sports coaching or professional sports. You may have the opportunity to study for a fitness instructor qualification as an add-on to your course or take some coaching and proficiency awards (dependent on conditions), which will enhance your prospects of employment or higher education.

Exam Board: Pearson

STARTS IN SEPTEMBER

All students (16-18 year olds and 19+) on level 3 vocational and academic programmes will study two qualifications over the duration of their two-year course.

An example of this is BTEC students will study for a 90 credit qualification in the 1st year. Upon successful completion, they will be able to progress to the 2nd year and study a diploma/extended diploma qualification.

A level students will study a two year linear A Level programme. At the end of their 1st year, students will sit internally assessed exams.

UK and EU students aged 19 or over on 31st August directly preceding their academic year will normally be required to pay tuition fees for that year of study. Advanced Learner Loans may be available for students studying at Level 3.

Course fees (for learners aged 19+) may be charged as follows:

A Level programme (2 year course)
1 x A Level = £850 per annum
2 x A Levels = £1,700 per annum
3 x A Levels = £2,550 per annum

Plus registration/exam fees = £120 per A Level

Vocational programme (eg BTEC / CACHE / UAL)
90 credit qualification (year 1) = £2,550
Diploma/extended diploma qualification (year 2) = £2,550

Students who are 19+ years old with Education Health and Care Plans (EHCP) issued by the Local Authority are not required to pay course fees (ie tuition fees are free). Students will be required to provide a final copy of their EHCP provided by the LA as evidence.

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What will I study and learn?
This course is made up of a variety of units and carries the same UCAS points as 3 A Levels.

Units will include:
- Sports development
- Practical team sports
- Sport and exercise physiology
- Leadership in sport
- Psychology for sports performance
- Rules, regulations and officiating
- Organising sports events
- Sports nutrition
- Fitness testing for sport and exercise
- Work experience in sport
- Fitness training and programming
- Outdoor and adventurous activities
- Exercise, health and lifestyle
- Sport and exercise massage
- Sports injuries
- Sports coaching
- Exercise for specific groups
- Current issues
- Principles of anatomy and physiology
- The physiology of fitness
- Assessing risk in sport
You will also be required to take part in two weeks work experience in year 1 which is considered vital to the success of this course and provides practical experience of skills and knowledge learnt in the classroom.

How is the course assessed?

Each unit consists of between 2-4 assignments which have to be completed throughout the course. Some units may be fulfilled through open book assessments. Evidence for your portfolio is gathered from written assignments, video evidence of practical ability, investigation work, practical experiments, role play and work experience. For example, in practical team sports, you will be asked to examine different skills and tactics, identify strengths and weaknesses and explore effective coaching methods to improve sports people's performance. Subject to requirements from governing bodies, external assessment and exams may be introduced for some units.

What courses would combine well with this course?

It may be possible to combine A Levels in this course, however you will need the necessary point score to consider A levels as an option alongside this course.

What skills will I need for the course?

You will need to have an interest in both sport and science along with good English and mathematical skills. You must also possess good organisational and communication skills. Proven record of good attendance and punctuality, and participate regularly in sport or physical activity.

What formal entry requirements will I need?

Minimum Requirements - 5 GCSEs at grade A*-C/9-4 including English, Maths and Science at grade 4 OR Level 2 Diploma at Distinction/Merit plus GCSE English, Maths and Science at grade 4.

What could the course lead to in higher education or careers?

This course provides an alternative route to the 3 A Level qualifications for those who wish to pursue a career in the field of sport. You can go on to higher education to study a degree in Sports Coaching, Sport Science, PE Teaching, or Sports Development. Those who wish to pursue careers in sports therapy or professional sport would also find the course highly useful.

Are there any costs involved?

You will be expected to pay £30 for student materials each year. Local, occasional trips will cost £10-£15 and multiple outdoor activity trips cost that may be offered will cost between £150-£350. You will also need a sports kit for practical sessions.

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