Level 3 National Foundation Diploma in Sport Coaching & Development 2025-26

Want a career in coaching or teaching PE? Here at EDC, we are constantly looking for what employers need, and because of this, we offer this Level 3 BTEC Sport in Coaching and Development. You'll spend some time in the classroom, doing practical sessions in the sports complex and fields, and then gain some real work experience working with our coaching company partners.

In year one, students will study for the Level 3 90 Credit Diploma. Once achieved, they may progress to the Extended Diploma in year two. During this, you will learn by completing projects and assignments that are based on realistic workplace situations and activities. As well as learning about the employment area you have chosen, you will develop the skills you will need to start a career.

The course is the equivalent of up to three A Levels on completion of the Extended Diploma. The course is split between theory and practical and includes an element of work experience of over 100 hours, which will involve working with our industry partners as coaches. Maths and English will be incorporated into the course, depending upon entry qualifications.

Employers' quotes:
“The course provides students with opportunities to access local grass roots clubs like Newton Aycliffe FC. It is a pathway for students to gain vital coaching experience.
Students will have the opportunity to help provide a safe and fun coaching environment for the youth in the local community”.

The course is comprised of academic elements such as:
• Anatomy and Physiology
• Sports Injuries and Physiology
• Sports Nutrition
• Sports Pscyhology

Alongside this, there will be practical elements of coaching and team/individual sports. You will also benefit from over 100 hours of work experience within sports coaching.

• Activities Instructor
• Fitness / Gym Instructor
• Lifeguard
• Nutritionist
• Personal Trainer
• Sports Therapist
• Strength and Conditioning Coach
• Teacher / Lecturer

... and so much more!

Progression onto a Degree or Foundation Degree in Sports and Exercise Science.

Applicants require five GSCEs at 9-4 grades, plus English at a minimum of grade 4.

Our entry requirements are in place to support our students in achieving the qualifications they have chosen to study. In addition to the entry requirements, all students will be regularly assessed by East Durham College at an early stage in their study programme. This is to ensure that students are enrolled onto courses which suit their abilities – following assessment, there may be occasions when students are transferred to a relevant course at a higher or lower level in order to ensure they are enrolled on to the right course for them to achieve and progress.

Entry onto any course at EDC may have entry requirements in addition to exam results; this includes but is not limited to DBS checks, references, fitness to practice and at times physical requirements to be capable of achieving the practical elements of the course without assistance. Entry onto any course at East Durham College is subject to final approval from the Assistant Principal.

You will be assessed throughout the course in a number of different ways, including written assignments, presentations, production of videos and practical observations.

September 2025

Full-time.

The 90 Credit Diploma is the first year of a two year programme. In the second year you will complete the Extended Diploma. This full time study programme courses may also be available to study on a part-time basis if you are aged 18 or over on 31st August. Please check with Student Services for more details.