Course Overview

Entry requirements

Enrolment on an A Level programme requires a minimum of 5 GCSEs at grades 9 - 4, including English and maths.

Specific criteria for this subject:

A minimum average point score of 4.25
Grade 4 English Language GCSE; Grade 4 Maths GCSE

Course information

The aim of this qualification, which is equivalent to one A Level, is to provide students with a foundation of knowledge in the main areas of sport focusing on their application in a sporting environment.

The qualification consists of four units of study, two core units in the first year, one of which is an external exam. In the second you will study two additional units with one being an external exam. The course consists of a high amount of coursework and a small amount of practical sport.

The course will provide a good foundation for employment or further studies in the sports and leisure industry. It must be studied alongside two other A Levels and can be combined with most subjects, but goes particularly well with Biology, Psychology and Sociology.

The BTEC Extended Certificate grades of Pass, Merit, Distinction and Distinction* carry UCAS points which, when combined with additional A Level courses, allow students to progress onto university degree courses. Alternatively, students could go on to apprenticeship or training schemes, or straight into employment.

Key topics

Anatomy and physiology
Fitness training and programming for health, sport and well-being
Professional development in the sports industry
Practical sports performance

- 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: 07/07/2028

Choose this course

What Can This Course Lead To

Progress to university, further study, a higher level apprenticeship or employment.

As a Level 3 qualification, the Extended Certificate grades carry UCAS points which, when combined with additional A Level grades, allow students to progress onto university degree courses. The course also provides students with a potential route onto apprenticeship or other fitness training schemes. Former students who have been successful on this course have progressed to study degrees including Sport Science, Physiotherapy, Sports Therapy and Sports Psychology.

Explore Your Careers Option