Level 3 BTEC Sports & Exercise Science


  • Start Date: 08/09/2025
  • Course is for: School Leaver
  • Course Length: 1 Year
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The Sport and Exercise Science sector is at the forefront of the connection between physical activity and health, making it a pivotal field with diverse career opportunities.

This course is tailored for individuals aspiring to thrive in the sports industry, preparing you for a university-level pathway in sport or nurturing your passion for sport and exercise sciences.

The course can lead to potential career destinations such as:

  • Sports Scientist
  • Sports Psychologist
  • PE teacher
  • Sports Nutritionist
  • Physiotherapist
  • Sports Therapists
  • Strength and Conditioning Coach
  • Paramedic

Our program not only equips you with specialised knowledge in sport and exercise science but also transferable skills sought after by higher education institutions and employers.

Over two years, equivalent to three A Levels, you’ll explore 13 comprehensive elements, providing a robust foundation for your academic and sporting aspirations.

You will cover areas such as:

  • Applied Sports and Exercise Psychology
  • Functional Anatomy
  • Coaching for Performance and Fitness
  • Sports Injury and Assessment

You will learn in a dynamic environment that integrates realistic vocational situations and activities, ensuring a holistic understanding of Sport and Exercise Sciences, and engage in practical components such as:

  • Specialised Fitness Training
  • Coaching for Performance and Fitness
  • Sports Massage

You’ll have the exclusive opportunity to join one of our eight specialised sport academies, offering up to 4.5 hours of professional training each week, access to competitions, and personalised training and development programs.

Over the two years, you will undertake four externally assessed units:

  • Functional Anatomy (1.5 hours)
  • Sport and Exercise Psychology (3 hours)
  • Sport and Exercise Physiology (1.5 hours)
  • Nutrition for Sport and Exercise (3 hours)

Internally assessed components encompass a comprehensive range of units, including:

  • Biomechanics in Sport and Exercise
  • Coaching for Performance and Fitness
  • Specialised Fitness Training
  • Applied Research Methods
  • Sports Massage
  • Technology in Sport
  • Physical Activity for Individual and Group-Based Exercise
  • Sports Injury and Assessment.

Assessment

Assessment methods vary, incorporating project work, essays, report writing, practical delivery, and presentations to ensure a well-rounded evaluation of your skills and knowledge.

In order to study A-levels with us, all students need to obtain a strong GCSE grade profile, averaging 6 x Grade 6s.

Individual subjects will also have their own specific requirements.

However, if you do not meet this profile, please still come to one of our enrolment events to discuss all of your options with a member of our A-level team.

Our dedicated Academy for Sport boasts over 25 experienced sport delivery staff, including teachers, coaches, and learning facilitators.

Each member specialises in areas such as:

  • Anatomy
  • Physiology
  • Sports Massage
  • Coaching
  • Psychology
  • Biomechanics
  • Nutrition
  • Fitness Testing

Their industry expertise ensures a dynamic and engaging learning experience.

Completing our course opens doors to further education, with the potential to earn between 48 and 168 UCAS points, depending on your grades.

The skills gained during your studies align with the demands of both higher education and employers, making you an attractive candidate for a range of careers.

Our alumni have successfully secured places in renowned institutions, including:

  • Sport and Exercise Science BSc Honours at Newcastle University
  • Sport and Exercise Sciences BSc (Hons) at Durham University
  • Sport Coaching BSc (Hons) at Northumbria University Newcastle
  • Sports and Exercise Therapy BSc (Hons) at York St John University
  • Physiotherapy BSc (Hons) at the University of Birmingham
  • BSc (Hons) Sport Psychology at Liverpool John Moores University
  • Paramedic Science and Out of Hospital Care BSc (Hons) at Sunderland University
  • Nursing (Child) BSc (Hons) at Sheffield Hallam University

Notable alumni include:

  • Matthew Cuthbert – a Physical Performance Coach at the Football Association
  • Matthew Jenkinson – a Sports Technical Specialist at York St John University
  • Molly Collinson – a successful business owner specialising in Performance Coaching, Nutrition, and Plant-Based Nutrition.

School Leaver Course Guide 2025/2026

View or download our course guide for 16-18 year olds.

Gateshead College School Leavers guide for 2025 - 2026