Sports Coaching & Development – Level 3 at Strode College

Course Type
School Leavers
Subject Area
Sports, Coaching & Exercise Health
Location
Strode College
Start date
02/09/2026

Course Overview

This course will take place at Strode College. To find out more about Strode College, please click here.

The Level 3 National Extended Diploma in Sports Coaching and Development is equivalent in size to three A Levels and provides a comprehensive foundation for a career in the sports industry. This qualification develops the knowledge, skills, and behaviours required for a variety of roles, thanks to the wide range of units studied.

Learners are equipped to pursue employment or self-employment in areas such as: Sports Coaching, Physical Education Teaching, Fitness Instruction, Sport Development Roles or even running their own coaching business. The course also supports progression to higher education, where students benefit from enhanced opportunities to gain part-time work in the sports sector while studying at university.

The content of the course has been developed in consultation with employers and professional bodies, ensuring alignment with current industry practices. As a result, learners are well-prepared for direct entry into employment, including positions such as a multi-skills sport coach and other development-focused roles.

Topics may include:

  • Careers in the sport and active leisure industry
  • Developing coaching skills
  • Applied coaching skills
  • Self-employment in sport and physical activity
  • Sport psychology
  • Sporting injuries.

Assesment Methods

This course is assessed by a range of assignments and assessments. These are set and marked internally and then validated by an external moderator.

You will be expected to complete work experience in a relevant industry placement.

Progression Options

This qualification prepares learners for employment in sports coaching, with the flexibility to work with participants of all ages – from children in schools to adults. Potential roles include community coach, school sports coach, holiday camp coach, and club coach working with beginners to advanced performers. Learners gain the skills needed to support sport development programmes and may progress to working with elite athletes.

The course also supports progression to higher education, meeting entry requirements for degrees such as BA (Hons) in Sports Coaching and Development or Sports Management etc.

Entry Requirements

You need five GCSEs in the 9 to 4 range, including English. This can include an appropriate 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.