Duration
2 Years
Course may be subject to change.
Turn your passion for sport into the skills, experience and confidence you need to build a career in the sports industry.
This course will develop your practical coaching and sports development skills, giving you the opportunity to learn how to plan, deliver and evaluate engaging sporting activities. You’ll build the knowledge and professional qualities needed to progress into employment or further study within the industry.
Along the way, you’ll develop highly valued transferable skills including leadership, communication, teamwork, collaboration, decision-making, planning, problem-solving and reflective practice. You’ll gain the confidence to work effectively with others, take responsibility and make a positive impact through sport.
Entry Criteria
4 GCSEs at grade 4 or above, including English and maths
Additional Costs
To get the most from your course, there are a few items you’ll need to provide yourself.
Stationery: You’ll need basic stationery, such as a notebook, pens and a pencil, for your studies.
Practical clothing: You’ll need comfortable clothing that is suitable for taking part in practical sports sessions.
Trips and visits: There is a £30 contribution at the start of the academic year towards course-related trips and visits, giving you the opportunity to gain experiences beyond the classroom.
What are the next steps?
Your interview is your chance to find out more about the course, meet the sports team and show us what makes you you.
You’ll start with a group presentation where you’ll learn more about the course, what you can expect at New College Durham and the expectations we have of our students.
You’ll then have a relaxed one-to-one chat with a member of the sports team. We’ll ask you questions about your interests, experiences, strengths and ambitions, giving you the opportunity to tell us what you’re passionate about and why you want to develop your future in sport.
Don’t worry about having all the answers – we want to get to know you, understand what motivates you and discover how we can help you achieve your goals.
Modules Studied
Get ready to explore the many career opportunities within sport and develop the practical skills and knowledge employers are looking for.
You’ll study a combination of mandatory and optional units, giving you a broad understanding of the sports industry while allowing you to develop areas that interest you most.
Core Modules Careers in the Sport and Active Leisure Industry
Health, Wellbeing and Sport
Developing Coaching Skills
Applied Coaching Skills
Self-Employment in Sport and Physical Activity
Sports Development
Research Project in Sport
Optional Modules You’ll also have the opportunity to study additional units, which may include:
Fitness Testing
Nutrition for Physical Performance
Sports Psychology
Practical Sports Application
From developing your coaching skills to exploring sports psychology, fitness and nutrition, you’ll build a well-rounded skill set that can support your progression into employment, higher-level study or a career in the sports industry.
Times of Delivery
Your timetable will be confirmed at the start of term, giving you a clear picture of your weekly schedule.
The course is usually delivered over four days per week, giving you dedicated time to develop your coaching skills, take part in practical sessions and build your knowledge of the sports industry.
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
Learn from tutors with valuable experience in the sports sector and benefit from their industry knowledge, insights and guidance throughout your course.
You’ll experience a varied mix of practical and theory-based learning, helping you put your knowledge into action and develop the skills you’ll need to progress in the sports industry.
Throughout the course, you’ll receive regular written and verbal feedback to help you understand what you’re doing well and where you can improve. You’ll also have ongoing support and opportunities to reflect on your progress, build your confidence and stay focused on achieving your goals.
You won’t just learn about sport – you’ll develop the skills, experience and confidence to take your next step within it.
Your journey in sport doesn’t have to stop when you complete this course.
On successful completion, you can progress to the second year of the Sports Coaching and Development course, continuing to build your knowledge, skills and experience.
You could also progress to higher-level study, including a Foundation Degree in Sports Coaching & Development or Sport and Exercise at New College Durham or progress to university.
Whether your ambition is to become a coach, work in sports development or continue into higher education, this course can help you take the next step towards a career you’re passionate about.
