Shirebrook Academy

BTEC level 3 Extended Diploma in Sport

The Sport Package

Shirebrook Academy is delighted to offer a sports package as part of its Post-16 provision for September 2011. Our sports package has been carefully constructed to meet the needs of the learners, with careful consideration given to providing students with maximum opportunities to gain academic, vocational, and sporting qualifications.

The sports package is a full time two year course, based primarily at the Academy. The core qualification at the heart of the sports package is the Edexcel Level 3 Extended Diploma in Sport (Development, Coaching and Fitness), which is worth the equivalent of three A Level qualifications. In addition, learners will get the opportunity to build up their range of qualifications by completing –

• Sports Leader Awards (level 2 and level 3)
• Sport specific coaching awards
• Sport specific officiating awards
• Work experience in a range of sports industries

The Extended Diploma in Sport

The BTEC National Diploma in Sport (Development, Coaching and Fitness) is designed for students interested in developing a career in the sports sector, with a specific focus on sports development, coaching and fitness. The qualification provides detailed insight into the variety of occupational routes available within the sector and progression into employment, or further study. The course can be adapted to suit your abilities and career aspirations. You must have the ability to work independently and as part of a small group. Most of the units are theory based but there will be ample opportunities to complement what is learned in the classroom with practical work.

Course Structure

Over the two years of the course you will be based in school full time, with the exception of completing weekly work experience in a chosen sports industry. To complete the BTEC Extended Diploma you will study a total of eighteen units of work spread over the two years,

Sample units include –

• Anatomy and Physiology
• Fitness
• Safety and Risk
• Coaching
• Sports development
• Practical Sport
• Leadership
• Work Experience
• Nutrition
• Sports Psychology

Assessment details

The course is assessed internally and then externally moderated by the exam board. It is 100% coursework based, so there isn’t a final examination. Each of the units will be assessed by completing assignments, devising leaflets , designing posters, or carrying out interviews, all of which will be closely linked to lesson content.

Enrichment opportunities

Throughout the two year course there will be many opportunities for students to experience the sports industry in all its glory. Example opportunities include –

• Visits to observe/ experience local and national sports facilities
• Weekly work experience within local schools, community sports clubs and/or local sporting facilities
• Visits to a range of professional sporting events
• A two week work experience block in year one and a four week work experience block in year 2 in a sports industry of your choice
• Daily opportunities to work alongside the PE department assisting setting up and running extra-curricular school activities for younger students
• Opportunities to participate in local sports competitions

Entry Requirements

You will need to demonstrate a reasonable level of literacy and communication and have a minimum of 5 GCSE’s at Grade C or above (including English and mathematics) and a satisfactory reference.

A keen interest in developing a career in a sports related industry.

What happens when you have finished?

What other learning could you do:
The BTEC National Diploma in Sport (Development, Coaching and Fitness) has the equivalence of three GCE A Levels, and it is possible for you to progress further into higher education, as BTEC National qualifications give UCAS points for university applications. Successful students can progress to a degree in a sports course or another related course.

Where Can I Find More Information:
Speak to any of the PE staff at the Academy, ask your Connexions Personal Adviser or school careers staff. More information regarding the BTEC Extended Diploma can be found at -

www.edexcel.com

What career options do you have?
With the international recognition of BTEC courses such as this, you can progress straight into employment.

Potential careers you can explore include becoming:

• a sport and exercise scientist
• a sports physiotherapist
• a sports coach
• a PE teacher
• a leisure centre manager
• a sports development officer
• part of the many uniformed services