Level 3 National Foundation Diploma in Sports Coaching and Development

As a student at Writtle College, you’ll learn theory in the classroom and get hands-on coaching experience in the college and at local schools.

You’ll also have the opportunity to work towards a CYQ Level 2 Fitness Instructor qualification, and gain a recognised first aid certificate.

We’ve developed our course in consultation with employers and professional bodies. It’s endorsed by the Chartered Institute for the Management of Sport and Physical Activity (CIMSPA), and maps to their professional standards of 'Assistant Coach' and 'Safeguarding and Protecting Children'. After successfully completing the course, you’ll be able to apply for CIMSPA membership and find work as an assistant coach.

The Level 3 National Foundation Diploma will prepare you for further study, or for employment.

As the course is endorsed by CIMPSA, it’s recognised by employers as being suitable for entry to employment as an assistant coach or in sports development roles.

As a coach, you may work in youth sport or with children at beginner levels, for example primary-school age.

Many primary schools are 'buying in' support for PE teaching, both during school hours and for after-school clubs and holiday activities. This area has grown substantially in recent years since the introduction of the Government’s PE and sport premium.

If you want to continue your studies, there are two main options:

• progress on to a Level 3 National Extended Diploma in Sports Coaching and Development
• consider university courses. This qualification is equivalent to 1.5 A-levels and, when combined with other qualifications, prepares you for degree-level study. Writtle College is part of Anglia Ruskin University (ARU); you might choose to stay at ARU and study for a degree in sport.