Age 16-18
Following successful completion of this course you can progress to study a Level 3 qualification in Personal Training and Fitness Instruction or gain employment as a qualified gym instructor.
Course Overview
Entry requirements
Four or more GCSEs at Grade 3 including:
- GCSE English Language and maths at Grade 3 (or equivalent)
- Progression from Level 1, and appropriate recommendation report
Course information
This qualification provides you with the knowledge and skills to enable you to plan, deliver and evaluate safe and effective fitness sessions. You will cover topics including fitness testing and training and anatomy and physiology.
This programme is designed to offer you a work ready qualification which will equip you with the skills and knowledge to pursue a career as a gym instructor. You will study the key theory behind gym based exercise in units such as nutrition and physiology as well as developing your practical skills in units such as circuit training and supporting clients. In studying this programme, you will have priority access to our onsite fully equipped gym which will provide you with a high quality environment in which to achieve your qualification. Upon completion, you will be eligible for direct employment in the industry, or you may choose to further your study towards our Level 3 Personal Training qualification.
Sports Pathways
We offer a range of Sports Pathways which can be added alongside your courses. These pathways give you the chance to study your chosen course whilst training and competing in your specialist sport.
- Tottenham Hotspur Football Development Centre
- London Lions Basketball Academy
- Legends Boxing Gym Academy
Click here to find out more about our Sports Pathways. You can select a sports pathway during the application for your chosen sports course.
Tottenham Hotspur Football Development Programme
We have partnered with the world-famous Tottenham Hotspur to offer all students a fantastic opportunity to develop a career in the sports sector.
Our partnership with Tottenham Hotspur Football Club gives male and female students a fantastic insight and experience of the coaching process and help further develop and support elite sports performance.
This programme is designed for students who want a career in the sports industry, primarily in coaching and training. You will be trained by qualified coaches from Tottenham Hotspur and visit Tottenham Hotspur's Training Centre, they get the opportunity to work at high profile premiership games and they progress to great things.
You will receive the very highest standards of coaching and sports industry knowledge, which will enhance your employability skills. This programme can be added to any 16-18 full-time sport and fitness course. Find out more here
Key topics
- Planning, delivering and evaluating safe, effective fitness sessions
- Fitness testing and training methods
- Anatomy and physiology for exercise
- Nutrition for gym-based exercise
- Client support and communication (including safeguarding and professionalism)
- Practical instruction skills: circuit training and gym-based programming
- Using and managing gym equipment safely
- Employability and work-ready skills for the fitness industry
- Progression routes: direct employment as a gym instructor or Level 3 Personal Training
-
Why study at NCC?
- We are Ofsted-rated Outstanding, so you can expect exceptional teaching and support you can trust
- Expert tutors bring real-world industry experience into every lesson
- Flexible learning options let you tailor study to your life and ambitions
- Broad career pathways: from entry level through to professional qualifications
- One-to-one support with academic advice, wellbeing services and financial guidance
- Modern, industry-standard facilities: labs, workshops, digital tools and performance spaces
- Courses co-designed with employers to match local and national job markets
- Strong employer partnerships offer placements, live projects and networking opportunities
- A supportive, inclusive community where you can flourish and succeed
If you’re aiming for a future in sport, fitness, coaching or the gym industry, New City College is the place to start. From classrooms to courts, you’ll get the skills, experience and support to go far.
At NCC, our sport pathways focus on three pillars:
- The Career - work placements and industry-recognised qualifications for jobs in coaching, sports science, personal training and more.
- The Education - the knowledge and theory you need to succeed in sport.
- The Player - top-level coaching, professional training and competitive opportunities to develop your athletic potential.
You’ll also benefit from exclusive partnerships with clubs like Tottenham Hotspur FC and the London Lions, giving you access to elite coaching and facilities.
And it’s more than just a qualification, with international trips, tournaments and competitions, you’ll create unforgettable memories. Our students recently toured Brazil, training, competing and exploring iconic landmarks like Sugarloaf Mountain, the Maracanã Stadium and the Olympic Park.
Select your campus option to apply
Dates
Start: 01/09/2026
End: 02/07/2027
What Can This Course Lead To
Life At NCC
Discover what life is like at the largest college in East London today!
Facilities for Students
At New City College we have a range of world-class facilities across our campuses.
Financial Support
There are several ways we can help you cover the cost of your studies.
