Extended Diploma in Sport (Sports Coaching)

Course information

The first thing you’ll notice about this course is that it’s about both practical and theoretical learning – you’ll be spending a lot of time outside the classroom doing practical sport and fitness in our on-campus sports hall, fully equipped gym and grass pitches. There are no exams at all; the course is a combination of practical and portfolio-based assessments.

At Duchy Stoke we have two pathways within the Level 3 qualification: football or fitness.

If you are interested in the football pathway; Duchy College Stoke has an amazing partnership in place with Plymouth Argyle FC. Students have the opportunity to enrol on a post 16 football development programme with high quality training delivered by Argyle staff twice a week and fixtures taking place most Wednesday afternoons, all of which go towards the evidence needed to complete your course, playing football actually is your college course. The Plymouth Argyle staff are on site for each day of the pathway, using their specialist industry expertise to support coach development and to improve individual player performance.

If you are interested in the fitness pathway: Duchy College Stoke have developed a new partnership with the state-of-the-art gym provision at The Zone in nearby Callington. You will travel to The Zone for some of your practical sessions where they have a combination of fitness equipment covering all aspects of fitness. In addition to the Duchy team having fitness industry experience and qualifications, the team at the Zone will be able to add their insight as you work on both your own physical fitness and learn how to coach in the fitness setting.

We have excellent links with local employers and sports clubs, providing amazing work experience and volunteering opportunities. Many of our As a Level 3 course, this diploma is all about you growing as a sports coach by effectively knowing how the body works, to successfully planning and delivering your very own sport coaching/fitness session. Our highly-skilled and motivated staff have a wealth of knowledge and experience in sport, health and fitness. They are there to give you the very best start to your career.

Whether you are interested in coaching, fitness training, leisure management or any one of the many exciting roles in the sector, then this is the course for you. This will be your stepping stone to a career in the sport, health and fitness industry!

What You Will Learn

This two-year course provides you with the underpinning knowledge and understanding to progress on to employment in Sports Coaching, continue with your studies or go on to Higher Education.

The Diploma in Sport is a vocational course combining the theory of such modules as; anatomy & physiology and fitness testing with the more practical learning in specialised technical and tactical awareness. This as a course is designed to prepare you for further study and life in the workplace.

Entry Requirements

Entry requirements for external applicants and school leavers
• Four or more GCSEs at Grade 4 or above including English and/or Maths, or successful completion of a relevant Level 2 qualification.
• Functional Skills Level 2 in English and/or Maths will be considered as alternatives to GCSE, but a GCSE resit may be required depending on grade.

Entry requirements for existing learners with the Cornwall College Group
• Successful completion of previous course and maths and/or English at GCSE Grade 4 or Functional Skills Level 2.

A minimum of four GCSEs at grade A* to C (9-4) (to include English and/or maths. Science and/or PE desirable). OR you will have successfully completed a relevant Level 2 programme (preferably at merit grade).

Work Experience

The learning is supplemented with engagement with industry specialists as you will complete a mandatory industry placement as part of your level 3 programme.

Assessment

You will be assessed through written assignments, professional discussions, group work, practical assessments and presentations.

Progression

Once you’ve finished the Level 3 course, you’ll have a real understanding of the wide range of subjects within sport, health and fitness. This will allow you to move on to the more advanced courses such as our higher education provision (FdSc Sport, Health & Fitness) or head out into the industry as a fitness instructor or community coach.

Duchy College Stoke Climsland

Duchy College Stoke Climsland

Set on stunning rolling hillsides, our campus epitomises the very best of land-based education. The recent addition of the £4 million Future Farm research facility means students and businesses are at the heart of the next evolution of environmental farming. Whether it’s a love of horses, sport, protective services, heavy machinery or animal care, nobody forgets their time at Duchy College Stoke Climsland. It’s time to secure your #careercollege experience.

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