Sports Coaching & Development – Level 3 at Bridgwater College

Course Type
School Leavers
Subject Area
Sports, Coaching & Exercise Health
Location
Bridgwater College
Start date
01/09/2026

Course Overview

The sports sector is a fast-growing industry. It is currently worth £39 billion to the economy and continues to grow annually.

This course will meet the needs of those who aspire to work in sports coaching, teaching, therapy and conditioning or the health and leisure industry. In addition, it will enable successful learners to progress to higher education. The broad study base provides a variety of experiences and the opportunity to acquire knowledge across a diverse range of subjects.

This course also provides an exciting opportunity to complete work experience internationally in the second year of the programme. In the past, we have worked alongside charities located in Africa and Italy where students have coached and taught in local schools, developing and gaining valuable skills that enhanced their employment opportunities.

Topics may include:

  • Developing coaching skills
  • Practical sports application
  • Careers in the sport and active leisure industry
  • Health, wellbeing, and sport
  • Sport development
  • Self-employment in sport and physical activity
  • Nutrition for physical performance
  • Fitness testing
  • Event organisation.

Assesment Methods

The course involves a mixture of theory and practice relating to sport, recreation, leisure and physical education.

It includes work experience and residential opportunities in the UK and abroad. In addition, learners may have the opportunity to complete a range of NGB coaching and officiating qualifications; this will enhance their professional profile when competing in today’s job market.

Assessment for the course is through a variety of coursework-based methods including observations, presentations, case studies, assignments, and synoptic assessments.

Progression Options

On successful completion, you may choose to progress into higher education by studying the Foundation Degree in Sports Science with Sports Coaching Education at University Centre Somerset.

Alternatively, you could find employment within the sport and leisure industry or progress to a Higher Apprenticeship, such as the Level 4 Sports Coach.

Entry Requirements

You need five GCSEs in the 9 to 4 range, which must be inclusive of either English Language or maths, or a Merit profile in a relevant Level 2 qualification.

Frequently Asked Questions

We aim to offer a careers service that is accessible to everyone. We will seek to equip all our students with the skills and knowledge that will enable them to operate confidently, effectively, and independently in life and work. All students have the opportunity to meet with a Careers Advisor for 1:1 career support.