BTEC Level 3 National Extended Diploma in Sport

Equivalent to 3 A-levels

Why Btec?

BTEC Nationals are widely recognised by industry and higher education as the signature vocational qualification at Level 3. D*D*D in Btec is equal in UCAS points (168) to A*A*A* at A-level.

BTECs embody a fundamentally learner-centred approach to the curriculum, with a flexible, unit-based structure and knowledge applied in project-based assessments. They focus on the holistic development of the practical, inter-personal and thinking skills required to be able to succeed in employment and higher education.

next phase academy progression

BTEC Level 3 National Extended Diploma in Sport
603/0459/5

This is intended as an Applied General qualification, equivalent in size to three A Levels. It is a two-year, full-time course (1080 Guided Learning Hours) (1390 TQT) that meets entry requirements for learners who want to progress to higher education courses in sport before entering employment.

What does this qualification cover?

The content of this qualification has been developed in consultation with academics to ensure that it supports progression to higher education. Employers and professional bodies have also been involved and consulted to confirm that the content is appropriate and consistent with current practice for learners who may choose to directly enter employment within the sport sector.

The qualification provides the knowledge, understanding and skills that allow learners to gain experience of the sport sector that will prepare them for further study or training.

Learners will study 10 mandatory units:

  • Unit 1: Anatomy and Physiology

  • Unit 2: Fitness Training and Programming for Health, Sport and Well-being

  • Unit 3: Professional Development in the Sports Industry

  • Unit 4: Sports Leadership

  • Unit 7: Practical Sports Performance

  • Unit 8: Coaching for Performance

  • Unit 9: Research Methods in Sport

  • Unit 19: Development and Provision of Sport and Physical Activity

  • Unit 22: Investigating Business in the Sport and Active Leisure Industry

  • Unit 23: Skill Acquisition in Sport

Learners will also choose four optional units that have been designed to support progression to the range of sector-related courses in higher education, and to link with relevant occupational areas:

  • Unit 5: Application of Fitness Testing

  • Unit 6: Psychology

  • Unit 10: Sports Event Management

  • Unit 27: Principles and Practices for Outdoor and Adventurous Activities

  • Unit 24: Sports Performance Analysis

  • Unit 30: Exercise, Health and Lifestyle

  • Unit 31: Current Issues in Sport

What could this qualification lead to?

Learners who have completed this qualification in two years may progress to further learning at Level 3. The qualification carries UCAS points and is recognised by higher education providers as meeting, or contributing to, admission requirements for many relevant courses.

Learners can progress to higher education on full degree single or combined courses, for example:

  • BA (Hons) in Sports Development and Management

  • BSc (Hons) in Sports Management

  • BSc (Hons) Sports Business Management

  • BSc (Hons) Sport and Leisure Management

  • BSc (Hons) Sports Science (Outdoor Activities)

  • BSc (Hons) in Exercise, Health and Fitness

    • BSc (Hons) in Sports Coaching
    • BSc (Hons) in Sports Therapy
    • BSc (Hons) in Sports Performance Analysis
  • BSc (Hons) in Sport and Exercise Psychology

Learners should always check the entry requirements for degree programmes with the specific higher education providers.

Examples of careers that post Higher Education learners could progress to include:

  • Sports Management

  • Sports Coaching

  • Sports Development

  • Sports Performance Analysis

  • Sports Therapy

  • Physiotherapy

  • PE Teaching

  • Events Management

“Since joining Next Phase I have made some amazing life long friends and I have improved majorly in my physical and rugby ability as well as becoming a stronger person. I have had so many laughs and made some great memories. I was the only girl in my intake, although that has not stopped me from joining in fully and enjoying the course with the rest of the crew.”
“Since coming to Next Phase Academy my game has really developed. This is due to the sports focused culture of the course, including games, skill work and training in the gym. I also really enjoy the sports focused study aspect.”
“Joining Next Phase Academy has really improved my confidence. Getting fitter and stronger in the gym has improved my rugby and also helped to build my confidence. I believe Next Phase Academy is really helping to set me up for adult life as I’m determined to follow a career in sport”

Rugby coaching at Aylesbury Rugby Club

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The Golf Project & Chiltern Forest Golf Club

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