Key Facts

BTEC Level 3 Extended Certificate in Sport and Exercise Science

The Extended Certificate is Year 1 of the Level 3 Diploma in Sport and Exercise Science, it is aimed at learners who want academic experience and who may aspire to apply to university. This course allows a student to re-take either GCSE Maths or English alongside studying for a Level 3 qualification. There is a good balance between coursework and practical work so this course will test your knowledge and skills. As well as developing theoretical knowledge, students will also develop critical skills such as teamwork, leadership and communication to support progression into employment or the next level of study. Practical sessions will take place in the colleges industry standard gym and sports hall facilities.

This qualification is equivalent to 2 A Levels, which means that when you have finished the course you may choose to go into full time employment. However, the natural progression is onto the Year 2 Diploma in Sport and Exercise Science Programme (with a maximum of 112+ UCAS points being available when top grade D D is achieved).

If topping up into year two, most students progress to university to study a range of Sport Science subjects. Recent graduates have secured places in Physical Education, Sports & Exercise Science, Sports Therapy and Physiotherapy.

  • Entry Requirements


    We will invite you to a Meet the Tutor event where you will receive information, advice, and guidance about the course you have applied for. This will be an opportunity for you to gain valuable information about the course and give you the opportunity to ask any questions you may have.

    You will provide a copy of your last school report and/or a reference from an employer or relevant professional to include attendance. This is to ensure we can support you to be able to achieve well on the course. Applicants with 85% or below attendance will have been deemed not to have met this criterion. All applicants are given an opportunity to discuss any evidence-based mitigating circumstances that may have affected the reference/school report.

    For admission on to the Extended Certificate or Diploma pathway (2x A-level equivalent over two years) applicants will need to have achieved 4 x GCSE's at 4/C or above, or a Level 2 Certificate/Extended Certificate (or higher), at Merit or above, in a relevant subject.

    You will also have gained either English and/or maths at GCSE 4/C or above, or L2 Functional skills.

    A retake will be required in either English or Maths alongside the Level 3 Extended Certificate in Sport and Exercise Science.

    We are firmly committed to finding the right course for you to ensure you can flourish. Talk to us today if you have any concerns about the application process, we are here to help take you to the next level.

  • Course Content


    The Extended Certificate is a one year programme that is equivalent to 2 A Levels. The course deals with the scientific themes and concepts of sport and exercise science and aims to provide studies in sport which are directly related to the changing needs of employers in specific areas of the sport science industry.

    Year 1 - Functional Anatomy, Applied Sport and Exercise Psychology, Specialised Fitness Testing, Coaching for Performance and Fitness. Year 2 - Students will progress onto the Level 3 Diploma in Sport and Exercise Science and choose subjects to suit their chosen career or university pathway.

  • Progression Next Steps


    Most students progress onto year 2 of the RQF Level 3 BTEC Diploma in Sport and Exercise Science. Alternative routes include Level 4 HNC in Sport and Exercise Science or Higher Education courses such as Physical Education, Sports Science, Sports Therapy or Sports Management. Learners can also progress into employment in teaching, sports coaching and gym instructing in the leisure and fitness industry.

    There are lots of opportunities available to you to progress across the South Thames Colleges Group and into the world beyond education.

    During your time with us you will have access to a dedicated team of careers and education advisors who will help you as you take the next steps towards achieving your goals.

  • Additional Information


    Early application is advisable as this course is popular. For further information please email Jade Douthwaite This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

  • Course Structure


    Duration and Delivery One year, full time

  • Assessment Details


    Two exam units (externally assessed) and two coursework units (internal assessed).