Who is this course for?
This course is for anyone who is passionate about sport and wants to develop the skills and knowledge to become a successful sport coaching or development practitioner.
On this course, you will develop a comprehensive understanding of the principles and practices of sports coaching and development.
You will learn how to plan, deliver, and evaluate effective coaching sessions, as well as how to develop and implement sports development programmes.
You will study areas such as the science of sport coaching including psychology and physiology, fitness training methods, sport development and coaching a variety of populations.
If you are interested in becoming a PE teacher, this course will also provide a pathway on to postgraduate qualifications in teaching.
This course will run if sufficient applications are received.
How long is this course and when does it run?
TThe Foundation Degree is either two-year (full-time) or four-year (part-time) programme, commencing in September 2025.
Deadline
The application portal is now open! The deadline for applications is 31st January 2025.
What are the entry requirements for the course?
· A minimum of four x GCSE A* to C or 4+, including English and Maths
· OCR/BTEC Level 3 Diploma
· A Level profile: DD
What will I study on this course?
Level 4: Stage 1
· Fundamentals of coaching and leading – Develop the core skills and knowledge needed to be an effective sports coach or leader.
· Psychology of sport and physical activity – Explore the psychological factors that influence sport performance, participation and motivation.
· Anatomy and physiology – Develop a comprehensive understanding of the human body’s structure and function, with a focus on sports-related applications.
· Professional practice – Prepare for careers in sport and physical activity through real-world work experience and professional development opportunities.
· Sport and physical activity participation – Examine the factors that influence sport and physical activity participation, and how to promote active lifestyles.
· Sport nutrition – Explore the nutritional needs of athletes and how to optimize nutrition for performance and recovery.
Level 5: Stage 2
· Research in action – Develop practical research skills for applying research methodologies to real-world problems in sport, health, exercise, or physical activity.
· Advanced sport coaching – Enhance coaching expertise through in-depth exploration of advanced coaching techniques, strategies, and methodologies.
· The developing athlete – Examine the unique physiological, psychological, and social aspects of athlete development across different stages of growth and maturation.
· Work-based learning – Provide students with the opportunity to gain valuable work-based experience in a professional setting related to sport, health, or physical activity.
· Health in the community – Explore the role of physical activity and healthy lifestyles in promoting community health and well-being.
· Sports training methods – Provide a comprehensive understanding of the principles and practices of sport training, including different training methods, periodization, and program design.
What qualification will I gain?
FdA Sport Coaching and Development from the University of Plymouth.
This can be topped up to a full degree through the BA (Hons) Sport Coaching and Development top up year.
Other work-based qualifications will also be offered or signposted to in areas such as coaching, fitness, massage and emergency aid.
How will it be assessed?
Assessment methods will include formal reports, essays, formal presentations, practical delivery, critical reflections and online open book assessments.
Work Experience
Each year will have a one-month full-time work placement within a local sport, physical activity, education or health provider.
How much will it cost?
£9,250 per year.
Extra Information:
Please email Andrew McGinnigle on andrew.mcginnigle@highlands.ac.uk or call UCJ on 01534 608702.
The application portal is now open! The deadline for applications is 31st January 2025.