Sports and Exercise Science Extended Diploma Level 3 (A0408)

3 A Level Programme

Minimum of 66444 at GCSE (Please note : grade 4 may be replaced by an 'old C' grade and grade 6 by 'old' B grade)

Vocational subjects cannot replace GCSEs for entry on to an A Level programme.

You must also study English/Maths GCSE if you have not already achieved grade 4 in these subjects.

4 A level programme

If you achieve a minimum of 3 GCSE's at grade 8 (A*) plus 5 at grade 7 (A) and your English Language and Maths are at minimum grade 4, you will have the option to join the A Plus programme.

Please note that A Plus is designed for applicants to academic courses at Oxford, Cambridge or other Russel Group universities. Grades in vocational subjects cannot replace GCSE's for entry to this programme.

Vocational programmes

Minimum of five grade 4 at GCSE (or old grade C) or Merit/Distinction in a relevant BTEC First Diploma (or equivalent) plus 1 grade 4 (or old grade 4) at GCSE. You must also study English Language and/or Maths GCSE if you have not already achieved grade 4 in these subjects.

Level 2 programme

Minimum of three grade 4 at GCSE (or old Grade C).

This programme is designed for those students who just miss our entry requirements for level 3 study. It includes an opportunity to improve your GCSE English Language and Maths grades, alongside a Workskills course to develop the skills required for progression into employment or onto a level 3 programme.

BTEC Extended Diplomas are an ideal choice if you are keen to combine academic studies with developing your sport performance and prefer a vocational alternative to A Levels. The BTEC Extended Diploma satisfies university entry requirements, but will also prepare you for a choice of interesting and worthwhile careers in the sport and fitness industry. The inclusion of Sports Psychology in the course makes the qualification a popular choice.

Over the two years within the full Extended Diploma you will study 18 units of work, which is the Equivalent of three A Levels. You will also have the opportunity to gain the additional qualification – Certificate in Fitness Instructing (Gym) and YMCA Level two – which is valued by employers. Also required to complete the course is a minimum of 15 hours per week home-based study.

Football pathway – if you have a strong interest in football there is an option of completing the Extended Diploma with a focus on football.

THIS COURSE IS DESIGNED TO ALLOW YOU TO EITHER STUDY FOR ONE YEAR TO ACHIEVE THE EQUIVALENT OF 1.5 A LEVELS OR TO GO ON TO A SECOND YEAR TO COMPLETE THE EXTENDED DIPLOMA TO ACHIEVE THE EQUIVALENT OF 3 A LEVELS. THE VAST MAJORITY OF STUDENTS COMPLETE THE TWO YEARS AND THEN LOOK TO MOVE ONTO UNIVERSITY, APPRENTICESHIPS OR EMPLOYMENT.

WHAT YOU WILL LEARN?

UNIQUE OPPORTUNITIES

IS IT SUITABLE FOR YOU?

In year 1 there are two examined units and four assignment based units. In year 2 there is one examined unit and six assignment based units. Exams are held in January and June.

5 GCSE's grade C or 4 including English & Maths. Science would be preferable.

Good English and Maths skills are essential for many jobs and courses you will progress onto. The Government has made it a priority for students to improve these skills and your course programme will reflect this key aim.

Academic Progression

To progress onto a second year of study, you will need to achieve a Merit grade plus an exceptional attendance and disciplinary record. These options could include Level 3 Extended Diploma in Sports and Exercise Science.

Further academic options could include study at degree or foundation Degree at a university or College. City College Norwich offers a Foundation Degree in Sport, Health and Exercise with an opportunity to top up to the BSc (Hons) Applied Sport, Health and Exercise.

Career Progression

The sport and active leisure industry supports over 450,000 jobs in the UK. Over the last five years it has become a £20 billion industry and experts predict it will continue to grow faster than other sectors in the economy.

This course will allow you to progress onto many careers which include sport and exercise scientist or psychology, a gym instructor or leisure centre assistant, personal trainer, sport development, sports nutrition and sports physiotherapist. Some of these careers will require further study at degree level. If you are looking for a career in non-sports physiotherapy this may be a suitable pathway but check with your university or college of choice.

For further information about specific job roles please check the National Careers Service website for;

• Sport and Exercise Scientist
• Lisure Centre Assistant
• Physiotherapist
• Sports Development Officer