What are lessons like in this subject?
BTEC Extended Certificate in Sport (Single)
Lessons on the BTEC Extended Certificate in Sport provide a strong introduction to key areas of the sports industry, with a particular focus on anatomy and physiology. You’ll explore how the body responds to exercise, gaining a deep understanding of the musculoskeletal, cardiovascular and respiratory systems through interactive classroom sessions, group work and applied tasks. Practical elements help bring theory to life—such as testing components of fitness, observing movement patterns, or applying knowledge in gym-based scenarios.
You’ll complete coursework assignments and prepare for external assessments using real-world examples. Although this is a smaller qualification, there are still opportunities for trips, guest speakers and links to local sports providers. Lessons are engaging, supportive, and designed to build your confidence and knowledge, whether you’re planning to go on to higher education, combine with other A Levels, or move into a career in sport, fitness or health.
BTEC Diploma in Sport (Double)
Lessons on the BTEC National Diploma in Sport offer a dynamic mix of theory and practice, designed to reflect real-life sporting contexts. You’ll explore topics such as fitness training, coaching, and anatomy and physiology through classroom activities, group work, and practical sessions. Learning is hands-on and engaging, with opportunities to apply your knowledge in real scenarios—like leading sessions, analysing performance, or designing training programmes.
The course is enhanced by trips to universities and National Institutes of Sport, as well as potential international work placements through the Turing Scheme, with recent visits to Malta and Italy. You’ll also benefit from guest speakers, access to modern sports facilities, and supportive tutors with industry experience. Lessons are focused on developing your skills, confidence, and understanding, helping prepare you for further study or a career in the sports industry.
BTEC Extended Diploma in Sport (Triple)
Lessons on the BTEC Extended Diploma in Sport are varied, practical, and designed to reflect real-world sporting environments. You’ll engage in interactive classroom sessions, practical activities, group projects, and presentations. One day you might be analysing performance using video feedback; the next, delivering a training session or exploring anatomy in a gym setting. Learning is active and applied, with case studies, guest speakers, and visits to universities and National Institutes of Sport enriching your experience. You’ll complete assignments based on realistic scenarios, such as designing fitness programmes or planning sports events.
There are also exciting opportunities for international work placements through the Turing Scheme, with recent destinations including Malta and Italy. With access to modern sports facilities and expert tutors with industry knowledge, lessons are supportive and focused on preparing you for careers in sport or progression to higher education.
What will I study?
BTEC Extended Certificate in Sport (Single)
You will complete a range of units throughout your course, including:
• Anatomy and physiology
• Fitness testing and programming for health, sport and wellbeing
• Professional development in sports industry
• Practical sports performance
BTEC Diploma in Sport (Double)
You will complete a range of units throughout your course, including:
• Anatomy and physiology
• Fitness training and programming for health, sport and wellbeing
• Professional development in the sports industry
• Sports leadership
• Application of fitness testing
• Sports injury management
• Work experience in sport
• Investigating business in sport and the active leisure industry
BTEC Extended Diploma in Sport (Triple)
You will complete a range of units throughout your course, including:
• Anatomy and physiology
• Fitness training and programming for health, sport and wellbeing
• Professional development in the sports industry
• Sports leadership
• Application of fitness testing
• Practical sports performance
• Coaching for performance
• Sports injury management
• Work experience in sport
• Investigating business in sport and the active leisure industry
• Development and provision of sport and physical activity
• Research methods in sport
• Exercise, health and lifestyle
I have matured over such a short space of time due to the opportunities provided to me at college whilst studying the BTEC Sport course. I took part in the Malta sports coaching trip and attained a place at Leeds Becketts University on a sports coaching course. I am also a qualified Rugby Union referee and I have refereed some College games.
James Pearson, Rodillian Academy
Sport
Please note: Subject videos have been filmed from colleges across our Trust.