Sport

Why choose Level 3 sport?

Sport is a dynamic and engaging subject that combines practical performance with an in-depth understanding of the body, training, and the sports industry. This qualification is equivalent to one A Level and gives students the opportunity to study a diverse range of topics through both classroom-based theory and practical activities. The course develops essential skills such as communication, leadership, organisation, and analysis – all of which are highly valued by employers and universities.

How will Level 3 sport be delivered?

The course is delivered over two years through a combination of practical sessions, classroom-based theory, independent research, and assignment-based learning. Students complete four units – three mandatory and one optional – that explore real-world sport, health, and fitness contexts.

You will study:

• Anatomy and physiology – understanding the structure and function of the body systems and how they relate to sport
• Fitness training and programming for health, sport and wellbeing – exploring lifestyle factors, fitness assessments, and creating training plans
• Professional development in the sports industry – investigating career pathways, conducting personal skills audits, and developing personal development plans
• Optional units – choosing from topics such as sports leadership, application of fitness testing, sports psychology, or practical sports performance, covering leadership, performance evaluation, psychological factors, and applied fitness testing

Assessment

Assessment is through a combination of external and internal methods. All units are completed over two years and contribute to the final qualification as follows:

• Unit 1: Anatomy and physiology – written exam (1 hour 30 minutes), externally marked – 33% of the overall grade
• Unit 2: Fitness training and programming for health, sport and wellbeing – externally assessed task completed under supervised conditions – 33% of the overall grade
• Unit 3: Professional development in the sports industry – internally assessed coursework – 17% of the overall grade
• Optional unit – internally assessed coursework – 17% of the overall grade

There is no coursework component for the externally assessed units. All assessments are completed by the end of the two-year course.

Progression

The qualification carries UCAS points and is recognised by higher education providers. It supports progression to university courses and careers in sport, fitness, and health-related sectors.

Studying this course can help students to:

• Access university courses such as sport science, PE teaching, coaching, or physiotherapy
• Pursue careers in personal training, sports psychology, nutrition, or sports development
• Gain transferable skills in teamwork, communication, planning, and analysis
• Explore opportunities in the NHS, education, and the wider sports industry