Key Information

Course Duration

1 year

Age Requirement

18+

Entry Criteria

5 GCSEs (Grade 4)

Experience

A passion for sport

Level 3 Diploma in Sport

Ready to turn your passion for sport into a career? Our NCFE Level 3 Diploma in Sport and Physical Activity is a one-year, full-time course designed to fast-track your future. Whether you’re looking for a practical, hands-on alternative to university or want to build on your existing qualifications, this course offers the perfect balance of applied learning and real-world experience.

9 dynamic units will equip you with the skills and knowledge to step straight into the sports industry or progress into further study. From industry-relevant training to real-world assessments, you’ll gain the expertise to thrive in an exciting and fast-paced sector. If you’re 18, have completed A-Levels, and aren’t wanting to go to university this could be the course for you!

APPLY

This course offers a comprehensive range of units designed to enhance your expertise and prepare you for the sports industry. Below are some of the modules you will study:

Year 1

In the first year, you will establish a solid foundation in sports and the core content of the course. Key modules include:

  • Career Preparation in Sport: Discover various career paths and the essential skills for success.
  • Exercise, Health, and Lifestyle: Learn to evaluate and promote healthy living.
  • Outdoor Adventure Principles & Practices: Gain an understanding of the key principles guiding outdoor sports.
  • Risk Assessment in Sport: Develop skills to identify and manage risks in sports settings.
  • Sport Leadership: Cultivate leadership abilities crucial for organizing activities.
  • Alternative Sports: Explore a variety of non-traditional sports and activities to broaden your expertise.
  • Water-based and Land-based Activity Skills: Acquire practical experience in activities central to outdoor adventures.
  • Sport Work Experience: Apply your knowledge in a real-world sports environment, gaining valuable industry experience.

This course suits students who are not only passionate about sports but also eager to embrace new challenges and experiences. To be eligible for our programme, you will need:

  • At least five GCSEs at grade 4 or above, including English and Maths.
  • You must be 18 years old by 31st August and ready to begin your journey with us in September.
  • While prior experience in water or land-based activities is not required, a strong enthusiasm for sports is crucial due to the programme’s practical nature.
  • We also recommend prospective students attend an interview or assessment to ensure the course aligns with their goals and ambitions.

Train, Qualify, and Get Employed

Kickstart your career in the watersports industry with our Instructor Academy, a free programme for all students. This initiative provides you with the chance to earn industry-recognised qualifications in both water and land-based activities, enhancing your CV and increasing your employability.

Why Choose Our Instructor Academy?

  • Extensive Training: Our programme covers essential skills across various disciplines, including sailing, powerboating, windsurfing, and climbing.
  • Practical Experience: Gain real-world experience alongside your qualifications, ensuring you are job-ready with a solid foundation of practical skills.
  • Recognised Qualifications: Obtain a range of qualifications that are highly valued in the industry.

Potential Qualifications:

  • Sailing: RYA Levels 1-3, RYA Seamanship Skills, Assistant Instructor, RYA Dinghy Instructor Pre-Entry Assessment, RYA Dinghy Instructor, RYA Safe and Fun
  • Powerboating: RYA Powerboat Levels 1 and 2, RYA Safety Boat
  • Windsurfing: RYA Start Windsurfing, RYA Intermediate Windsurfing (Non-Planing), Assistant Instructor, RYA Start Windsurfing Instructor
  • Paddlesports: UK Paddle Start, Discover, Explore Awards
  • Climbing: Climbing Skills Introduction, Climbing Instructor Training
  • Mountain Biking: MTB Skills Introduction, MTB Leader Training
  • First Aid: RYA First Aid

What Sets Us Apart?

  • No Fees: Our Instructor Academy is free, making it accessible to anyone passionate about outdoor adventure.
  • Career Support: We provide continuous career guidance, helping you secure employment in the industry after qualification. This includes job opportunities at Rockley to further enhance your CV and skills.
  • Supportive Community: We foster an inclusive environment where every student feels supported. Our programme helps you grow both personally and professionally.

Start Your Journey

Join Rockley’s Instructor Academy to gain the skills, qualifications, and experience needed for a successful career. Our expert instructors and supportive network are dedicated to ensuring your success every step of the way.

Guiding You To Achieve

At Rockley College, we are committed to providing a comprehensive support system that fosters both your academic success and personal growth.

Educational Guidance

We prioritise academic excellence through personalised support. Our experienced teaching staff offer tailored guidance to help you confidently progress through your course.

Guidance And Personal Enrichment

Your well-being is our top priority. Our pastoral care programme is designed to support your mental health, personal development, and social integration. Our team, trained in safeguarding, ensures a safe, inclusive, and nurturing environment where every student feels valued.

Professional Pathways

We focus on your future. Whether you aim for higher education or entering the workforce, we provide guidance on career pathways and professional development. Our support includes CV-building workshops, interview preparation, and access to extensive industry networks.

Dynamic Learning

Learning at Rockley extends beyond the classroom. Our Level 3 Diploma in Sport study programme offers practical experiences in sports-related environments, complemented by a virtual learning platform for flexible engagement with course material. Weekly tutorials cover essential topics like safety awareness, UCAS applications, and job readiness. Regular reports and active parental involvement through parents’ evenings keep everyone informed about your progress.

Your Journey with Rockley

Completing your Level 3 Diploma in Sport at Rockley is just the beginning. This qualification unlocks numerous opportunities, combining higher education, career advancement, and exciting ventures in the sports industry.

Explore Our Success Stories: See our success stories here; Success Stories

University Pathways: Many graduates continue to higher education, with universities appreciating the hands-on learning and essential soft skills developed during our course. Your practical experience will make your university applications stand out.

Employment Opportunities: With built-in work placements and leadership roles, you’ll be well-prepared to enter the sports industry directly. The real-world experience you gain will be invaluable as you start your career.

Apprenticeships: For those who prefer to learn while working, apprenticeships offer an ideal path. Consider our Level 3 Outdoor Instructor Apprenticeship to further develop your skills in a professional setting.

Our expert team is here to support you every step of the way, ensuring you maximise the opportunities available and continue your journey with confidence.

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What Our Students Think

“From the first open day to the last day you leave, Rockley want the best out of every student and they won’t stop helping and giving you the attention and advice you need to be able to succeed.”

Katia McCrudden

“Rockley has helped me gain the confidence I have needed to tackle new things and pursue new opportunities. It has motivated me to gain further qualifications and has also made me want to travel the world more.”

Connor Barnard

“I really want to emphasise the positive side of dyslexia. I like the fact that I’m giving something back to Poole Yacht Club by training the youth sailors now - I’d encourage everyone to follow their ambitions.”

Toby Griffen

“Choosing Rockley over other sixth form and colleges is the best decision I've made. I want to meet new people through travelling and working in different places and ultimately teach watersports to local communities.”

Megan Westbrook

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