Level 3 Sport

Course content & format

Unlock Your Potential with Sport Science

This full-time Sport Science course is designed to provide you with the essential scientific knowledge and practical skills needed for progression into higher education or a career in the sports industry. Over two years, you will study 18 in-depth units that develop your understanding of the human body, athletic performance, and the science behind sport.

Through engaging, hands-on learning, you will explore topics such as Anatomy, Physiology, Sports Injuries, and Sport Psychology. You will gain the ability to assess performance, understand physical responses to training, and examine the mental factors that influence sporting success.

The course combines academic and practical assessment methods, including written assignments, presentations, scientific investigations, and group tasks. Core areas of study include:

· Anatomy and Physiology

· Sports Injury and Rehabilitation

· Coaching and Leading

· Sport and Exercise Psychology

· Fitness Testing and Training

· Applied Sport Science Research

Work placement is a key feature of the course. As part of your study programme, you will complete a compulsory placement within the sport or health sector, allowing you to put your learning into practice and gain valuable industry experience. This real-world exposure ensures you are fully prepared to transition smoothly into university or the world of work.

Your learning experience

Explore the Science of Sport — Investigate, Analyse, Achieve

If you're passionate about sport and curious about how the body and mind perform at their best, this course offers the ideal environment to develop your skills, deepen your knowledge, and prepare for a future in the sports science or health and fitness industries.

As a Sport Science learner, you’ll engage in a rich and varied learning experience that extends beyond the classroom. Practical sessions will take place across a range of settings — from our Sport Science Lab and fully equipped fitness suite to our sports hall and digital learning platforms.

You’ll have the opportunity to:

· Investigate how the body functions through Anatomy and Physiology

· Understand and support athlete recovery through Sports Injury and Rehabilitation

· Explore the mental side of performance with Sport and Exercise Psychology

· Use GoPros, iPads, and performance analysis tools to capture and assess athletic movement

· Conduct fitness tests and experiments in our science lab

· Work in small groups, applying theory to real-world scenarios

To enhance your learning, you’ll benefit from unique industry experiences, including:

· Visits to Manchester Metropolitan University and UA92

· Industry days with Active Tameside and other leading organisations

· Guest lectures from professionals across the sport and health sectors

You’ll also complete a weekly work placement, applying your learning in real-life settings — helping to prepare you for higher education or direct entry into the sport, fitness or health industries.

To fully participate in all elements of the programme, including placements, a DBS check is required at the start of the course.

Entry qualifications

Level 3 (Advanced) - 4 GCSEs grade 4 or above including Mathematics and English. You will be interviewed for this course and require DBS clearance, you should be enthusiastic about working in the sport and physical activity sector and able to participate in work experience.

How is this course assessed?

Engaging, Exam-Free Assessment Tailored to You

This course is designed to support different learning styles and make your experience as engaging and rewarding as possible — with no external exams.

You’ll be assessed through a wide range of innovative and interactive methods, including:

· Podcasts and audio reflections

· Gamified learning activities

· Case studies and scenario-based tasks

· Class discussions and group projects

· Practical assessments and real-world tasks

· Presentations, written reports and visual displays

Learning will take place in the classroom, virtually through our online platforms, and out on work placement — giving you the chance to apply your skills in a variety of real-life environments.

As part of your assessment, you’ll need to give permission for photographic and video evidence to be captured and shared with the awarding body to support your practical achievements.

This is a graded qualification where you can achieve Pass, Merit, Distinction or Distinction*, recognising the full breadth of your knowledge and effort across all aspects of the course.

What can I do next?

Your Pathway to Higher Education and a Career in Sport Science

On successful completion of this qualification, you can progress onto a university-level course in a sport or health science-related field, such as Sport and Exercise Science, Physiotherapy, Sports Therapy, Strength and Conditioning, or Psychology (depending on your final grade).

Former learners have progressed into exciting careers after university, including roles such as:

· Performance Analyst

· Sports Scientist

· Sports Psychologist

· Strength & Conditioning Coach

· Sports Marketing Manager

· Exercise Physiologist

· Rehabilitation Specialist

· PE Teacher

Alternatively, many learners move straight into employment within the sport, fitness and health sectors. A number of our students secure paid roles through their work placements, gaining valuable experience and strong industry connections.

Typical employment opportunities include:

· Fitness Instructor or Personal Trainer

· Lifeguard or Swimming Teacher

· Sport and Health Development Assistant

· Camp America Leader

· Leisure Centre Staff

· Assistant Sports Therapist

· Community Activity Coordinator

Whether your goal is university, further training or immediate employment, this course provides the knowledge, experience and confidence to succeed in the growing sport science and physical activity industries.