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Extended Diploma in Sport (Sports Coaching) 16-19

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Location and start date

Duchy College Stoke Climsland - 7 September 2026

Level

Level 3 Levels Explained

Duration

2 Year

Attendance

Full-time

Subject area

Sport & Outdoor Adventure Find out more

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, yet is still the equivalent to 3 A-levels and holds UCAS credits!

At Duchy Stoke we have two pathways within the Level 3 qualification: football or Multi-Sport and 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 the Argyle staff, all of whom hold FA and UEFA coaching qualifications. Evidence from these sessions is even used towards achieving your qualification. 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. Additionally, our partnership with Argyle allows us to enter the EFL Community and Education Alliance League, competing against other teams in partnership with professional clubs such as; Exeter City, Bristol City, Bournemouth and Swindon to name a few. Football will be part of your programme every day, training three times a week and representing the College and Argyle on a Wednesday afternoon in league and cup fixtures.

If you are interested in the Multi-Sport and Fitness pathway: Duchy College Stoke have developed a new partnership with the state-of-the-art gym provision at Abs-Solute Health and Fitness in nearby.Launceston. You will travel to Abs-Solute for some of your practical sessions where they have a combination of fitness equipment covering all aspects of fitness, including additional sessions with inudstry experts such as nutritionists, physiotherapists and various health and fitness experts. In addition to the Duchy Teaching Staff having fitness industry experience and qualifications, the team at Abs-Solute 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. In your Multi-Sport sessions, you will be exposed to a wide range of sports and activities, including; Football, Netball, Multi-Skills and Athletics. These sessions prepare you for planning and delivering activities at local partner Primary Schools, allowing you to gain real world experience of leadership and coaching in the Industry.

We have excellent links with local employers and sports clubs, providing amazing work experience and volunteering opportunities. 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 entering the sports industry in one of the many exciting roles such as; coaching, fitness training, leisure management or if you are interested in studying for a degree in the UK or abroad, this will be the stepping stone to your future career!

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 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 AND a grade 4 or above in English and/or Maths.
• 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.

Please note: Some of our courses may have extra entry requirements or need a bit more information, like evidence or experience. Don't worry—we’ll guide you through everything when you apply!

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

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

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 progress to universities in both the UK and abroad, apprenticeships with partners such as Argyle Community Trust or our level 3 Diploma in Gym Instructing and Personal Training.

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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Courses listed on this website are indicative of the subject, nature and level of study. The College reserves the right to alter specific qualifications titles, awarding bodies and levels of qualification, which can change in year. Any cost may also vary, based on personal funding eligibility. The Cornwall College Group reserves the right to withdraw any course listed at any time.

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Course type: 16-19
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16-18 Tuition fees: £0
If you’re aged 16-18 when you begin your course, you will usually be eligible for free tuition. Detailed information can be found in our Financial Support section.
Financial support for School Leavers
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Extended Diploma in Sport (Sports Coaching) Level 3 Duchy College Stoke Climsland Sports, Fitness, Coaching, Football, Pafc, Argyle, Sport, Cornwall