Duration
2 Years
Course may be subject to change.
Take the next step towards a career in sport, fitness and personal training by developing a strong understanding of the principles, practices and opportunities within the industry. This course will give you the knowledge and practical skills to explore a range of career pathways and make informed decisions about your future.
Alongside your industry knowledge, you’ll develop valuable transferable skills that employers look for, including leadership, coaching, decision-making, teamwork, collaboration and communication. You’ll also strengthen your ability to plan effectively, solve problems and reflect on your own performance, helping you build the confidence and professional skills needed to progress in the sport and fitness sector.
Entry Criteria
4 GCSEs at grade 4 or above, including English and maths
Additional Costs
You’ll be asked to contribute £30 at the start of the academic year to help cover the cost of trips and visits linked to your course. These experiences can provide valuable opportunities to broaden your understanding of the sport and fitness industry beyond the classroom.
What are the next steps?
As part of the application process, you’ll have the opportunity to meet a member of the course team and find out more about studying at New College Durham.
You’ll attend a group presentation, where you’ll learn more about the course, what you can expect from your studies and the college’s expectations. This will be followed by a one-to-one conversation with a member of the team.
During your one-to-one, you’ll be asked a range of questions about you, your interests, strengths and aspirations. It’s a chance for us to get to know you and for you to ask any questions you may have about the course and your future at New College Durham.
Modules Studied
You’ll study a broad range of topics designed to build your knowledge, practical skills and understanding of the sport, fitness and personal training industries.
Careers in the Sport and Active Leisure Industry Explore the wide range of career opportunities available across sport and active leisure. You’ll develop an understanding of different job roles, industry expectations and the skills you’ll need to progress.
Health, Wellbeing and Sport Develop your understanding of the relationship between physical activity, sport, health and wellbeing. You’ll explore how exercise can contribute to a healthier lifestyle and support positive outcomes for individuals and communities.
Fitness Skills Development Build your practical fitness skills and develop an understanding of how to plan and deliver effective exercise sessions. You’ll gain experience that can support your progression towards a career in the fitness industry.
Personal Trainer Skills Development Develop the knowledge and practical skills needed to work with clients and support them in achieving their fitness goals. You’ll explore areas such as exercise planning, client needs, communication and professional practice.
Self-Employment in Sport and Physical Activity Explore what it takes to work for yourself within the sport and physical activity sector. You’ll develop an understanding of business planning, promoting your services and the skills needed to operate as a self-employed professional.
Nutrition for Physical Performance Explore the principles of nutrition and how food and hydration can support health, exercise and physical performance. You’ll learn how nutritional choices can influence training, recovery and overall wellbeing.
Business and Technology in Personal Training Discover the business and digital skills that can support a career in personal training. You’ll explore how technology can be used to communicate with clients, promote services and manage aspects of a personal training business.
Research Project in Sport Develop your research and independent study skills by investigating a topic within sport, fitness or physical activity. You’ll learn how to gather and evaluate information, develop your ideas and present your findings effectively.
Times of Delivery
You’ll receive your full timetable at the start of your programme, so you’ll know when and where your classes are taking place.
The programme is expected to be delivered across four days per week, with teaching taking place between 9am and 5pm. Please note that your exact days and teaching times will be confirmed on your timetable.
Any times indicated are based on current courses and may be subject to change in future years. Full timetables will be confirmed at the start of each course.
Teaching and Assessment
You’ll learn from experienced tutors who can share their knowledge and industry experience, helping you develop the practical skills, professional behaviours and understanding needed to progress within the sport and fitness sector.
The course combines practical and theory-based learning, giving you opportunities to apply what you learn and build confidence in real-world situations. You’ll receive regular written and verbal feedback on your work, along with ongoing support from your tutors. You’ll also have opportunities to reflect on your progress, identify areas for improvement and work towards your personal and career goals.
You’ll be assessed in a variety of ways, including:
- Written assignments
- Practical assessments
- Presentations
- Case studies
- Observation of performance
- Reports
- Posters and factsheets
- Workbooks
- Group and individual discussions
This varied approach gives you different ways to demonstrate your knowledge, practical abilities and understanding, while helping you develop the communication, organisation and professional skills valued by employers.
Completing this Level 3 qualification can give you a strong foundation for your next step in sport, fitness and personal training. Depending on your goals, you could progress to higher-level study, including the FdSc Sports Coaching & Development at New College Durham, or apply for a relevant degree at university.
You could also use the knowledge, practical experience and transferable skills you develop on the course to pursue employment opportunities within the sport and fitness sector.
Whether you want to continue studying or move into employment, the course is designed to help you build the skills and confidence to take your next step.
