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NRC Logo

Course Code
PFFN01240
Level
Level 3
Course Type
Further Education
Study Mode
Full-time
Duration
1 Year
Start & End
1 September 2025 - 5 June 2026
Location
Newtownabbey
  • Recognised coaching qualifications in a variety of sporting disciplines.
  • Visits, guest speakers and involvement in local Sports Development Projects.
  • Coaching placements.

The Pearson BTEC Level 3 National Foundation Diploma in Sports Coaching and Development is equivalent in size to 1.5 A Levels.

This qualification is intended for post-16 learners wanting to progress directly to self-employment in the coaching and development sector as an assistant coach.

The qualification is mapped and endorsed by the Chartered Institute for the Management of Sport and Physical Activity (CIMSPA) and allows you to apply for CIMSPA membership after successfully completing this programme and is recognised by employers as being suitable for entry to employment in the role of a multi-skills sports coach in the sport development sector. 

During this course you will study the following units;

  • Careers in the Sport and Active Leisure Industry
  • Health, Wellbeing and Sport
  • Developing Coaching Skills
  • Sport Development
  • Self-employment in Sport and Physical Activity
  • Practical Sports Application

On successful completion of year 1, you could have the option to do a second year to complete the Level 3 National Extended Diploma in Sports Coaching and Development (3 A-Level equivalent)

Level 3 BTEC Extended Diplomas are valued by employers and higher education (Universities and colleges). If you want to get a job straight away, you could work in:

  • Sports Centres
  • Leisure Centres
  • Outdoor Activities Centres

If you decide to go to university or college, you could take a degree or a BTEC Higher National in subjects such as:

  • Sports Studies
  • Leisure Management
  • Recreation Management
  • Teacher Training

4 GCSEs Grade A-C, or equivalents.

Course Fees

This course is free of charge.

Further Education (Level 1-3) full-time courses including Apprenticeships have no course fees for most students:

Level 3 Further Education (full-time)

There are no tuition fees for Level 1 - 3 full-time students aged between 16 and 18.

If you are aged 19-24 and have already achieved a Level 3 qualification, fees will apply. Details of fees are available from any campus reception.

If you are aged 25 or older, fees will apply unless in receipt of a FE grant. (If you are aged 25 or older, admission to a full-time Further Education course will be considered on an individual basis at the College's discretion).

Level 3 Access Courses (full-time)

If you are in receipt of a FE grant, no fees apply.

If you are aged 19 or older and have already achieved a Level 3 qualification (3 A Level equivalent), fees will apply.

Details of fees are available from any campus reception.

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