Why study the BTEC National Extended Certificate in Sport?

This subject offers a combination of vocational and academic study, taking two academic years to complete and is equivalent to one A level. The learning content of our BTECs is built around national cccupational standards, which is why BTECs are recognised as valuable qualifications by universities, employers and apprenticeship schemes.

 

Level: BTEC level 3 extended certificate

Board: Pearson

Head of department:
Mr C Davidson

Entry requirement: Five grade 5s at GCSE including English and maths

Who is it for?

BTEC level 3 is the equivalent of studying  A levels, and provides access to degree programmes at university, apprenticeships, further training and employment, not just within the sports sector. Many of the skills and knowledge gained are transferable and well recognised within industry and education. This course is ideal for anyone considering a future career where a good grounding in physical education and sports science is important.

It provides a route into potential employment, such as teaching, coaching, personal training, sports development, physiotherapy, recreation management, police, armed forces, sports journalism, sports psychology, nutritionist and so on.

What will I study?

Students will study four units over two years – two exams and two coursework assignments.

  1. Anatomy and physiology
    You will explore how the skeletal, muscular, cardiovascular, respiratory systems and energy systems function and support sporting performance.
  2. Fitness training and programming for health, sport and wellbeing
    You will explore client screening and lifestyle assessment, fitness training methods and fitness programming to support improvements in a client’s health and wellbeing. Excellent practice for those who inspire to be personal trainers or physiotherapists.
  3. Professional development in the sports industry
    You will explore the knowledge and skills required for different career pathways in the sports industry. You will take part in, and reflect on, a personal skills audit, career action plan and practical interview assessment activities.
  4. Sport psychology
    Covers the psychological dimensions of sport and introduces psychological techniques that can be used to enhance performance. Why do athletes cheat in sport? Why are some athletes aggressive but others passive? What is the difference between intrinsic and extrinsic motivation and how does this impact performance?