Sport, Fitness and Personal Training - Level 3

Summary

This is a unique course aimed at equipping you with the knowledge, skills and expertise in order to start a career within the fitness industry. This programme combines the Level 3 National Diploma in Sport with industry recognised (CIMSPA) qualifications; the Level 2 in Gym Instructing and the Level 3 in Personal Training, as well as a purposeful extended industry placements with our partners in the fitness industry.

The main aim of our course is to develop your understanding and knowledge of the roles, responsibilities, skills and techniques involved in fitness and personal training. You will learn the importance of health assessment, effective fitness training and programming as well as the expert delivery of a range of fitness classes.

Next course dates

Start date Location Duration
01 Sep 2025
Bispham Campus
2 Years

Where can this subject lead?

Career progression

This programme benefits from a 96% success rate, with students progressing onto their chosen career path either directly or after completing a relevant degree-level programme.

The programme carries the maximum 280 UCAS points needed to gain entry onto degree-level programmes. You could progress to one of B&FC's own degree-level programmes, delivered at our University Centre in Blackpool.

Key information

Entry Requirements

4 GCSEs grade 4 or above including English and Maths or Level 2 relevant qualification, along with the following:

  • A successful interview with a tutor
  • The ability to study independently
  • A genuine interest in the subject
  • Good communication skills
  • Hardworking approach towards the industry

All 16-18 year old applicants will be invited to attend an interview to meet a tutor and ask any questions they may have about the course.

Qualification obtained

BTEC National Extended Diploma in Sport, Fitness and Personal Training

Extra costs and equipment

Other than basic stationary (pens, paper, folder etc) all resources are available at B&FC and are not required to be purchased by the student.

There are no additional costs for educational trips. This includes the NCS field trips as part of work placement, with no cost to students for activities, accommodation, travel and three meals a day.

What will I learn?

Essential skills: English and Maths

If you achieve a grade 3 in GCSE Maths or English you will have to work towards re-sitting these subjects as part of your main study programme.

At B&FC, this won’t delay your career journey because you’re working towards these subjects at the same time as your chosen subject.

How will I be assessed?

How will I be assessed?

The course allows you to develop knowledge, skills and attributes that are essential for success in your working life.

There is a strong emphasis on the development of interpersonal skills to provide confidence in dealing with clients and the general public. You will hone skills specifically required for the sport and leisure industry, such as communication, organisational and team-working skills. The course also provides an opportunity to develop your cognitive and functional skills along with your understanding of associated topics such as health and safety.

Assessment of the L3 National Diploma in Sport is a combination of internally set assignments (75%) and externally set exams (25%).

For the main qualification you will study the following units:

First Year Units: National Extended Certificate (1 A Level)

  • Principles of Anatomy & Physiology in Sport (33%)
  • Fitness Training and Programming for Health, Sport and Well-being (33%)
  • Application of Fitness Testing (17%)
  • Professional Development in Sports Industry (17%)
  • Plus the ActiveIQ Level 2 in Gym Instructing (CIMSPA recognised)

After your first year, you will progress into year 2 to complete the full BTEC Level 3 Diploma in Sport, equivalent to 2 A Levels plus the Level 3 in Personal Training. To gain entry to the second year you will need minimum 90% attendance and to meet your minimum target grade (MTG). Your target grade is set from your GCSE results. Your tutor will tell you more about this in induction.

Second Year Units: National Diploma in Sport (2 A levels)

  • Research Methods in Fitness (16%)
  • Research Project in Fitness
  • Psychology (16%)
  • Practical Sports Performance (16%)
  • Coaching Sports Performance (16%)
  • Fitness Event Organisation (16%)
  • Plus the ActiveIQ Level 3 in Personal Training (CIMSPA recognised)