Start Date
- September 2026, Full Time, Day
What You Will Study
Are you passionate about elite sport and aiming to compete at the highest level? This course is designed to help you turn that passion into a career. Whether you're into football, rugby, golf, or individual sports, you'll train like an aspiring elite athlete while gaining a top-level qualification.
This pathway bridges the gap between GCSEs and your future in sport, combining academic study with professional-level training, strength and conditioning, and competitive fixtures (where applicable). You’ll be supported every step of the way as you work towards your goals in the sports industry.
?? What You'll Learn
You’ll be studying the?BTEC Level 3 Extended Diploma in Sport, which is equivalent to?3 A-levels. This means you’ll be fully prepared for university, an apprenticeship or a career in sport.
Year 1 Units are likely to be: Anatomy & Physiology (Exam), Fitness Training & Programming (Exam), Sports Psychology, Sports Leadership, Practical Sports Performance, Professional Development, Application of Fitness
Year 2 Units are likely to be: Coaching for Performance, Research Methods, Sports Development, Investigating Business in Sport (Exam), Skill Acquisition (Exam), Sports Injuries, Exercise, Health & Lifestyle
Your weekly timetable also includes: Academic Tutorials, Learning Workshop, Personal Development, English & Maths (if needed), Training and fixtures are scheduled around your lessons, so you’ll be in college?4–5 days a week.
Why Choose Easton College?
Elite facilities
Our sports facilities are among the best in the region and include the largest indoor tennis venue in the East of England, 3G pitches and gym and fitness centre.
Large, growing industry
The sport, health and fitness industry is worth £20bn and growing.
Industry expert teachers
You will learn from expert teachers with extensive experience in the industry.
Entry Requirements
To join this exciting pathway, you’ll need:
Academic Requirements:
Achieve 5 GCSE's at grade 4 or above, including English Language and Maths.
Additional Requirements:
Complete the online Easton Applicant Information Form?(via QR code)
2 references (one from your coach, one from school or work)
Attend a Curriculum Taster Day
Attend a Sport Specific Academy Taster Day
Complete a Summer Task (given at your Curriculum Taster Day)
Be actively competing at club level with ambitions to reach your full potential – evidence required.
How You Will Be Assessed
Assessment is varied and engaging:
2 external exams per year
Coursework assignments
Presentations
Observations
Interviews
Course Progression
On successful completion of your Extended Diploma in Sport (Performance and Excellence Pathway), options could include study a degree at a University or College. City College Norwich offers a BSc (Hons) Sport, Health and Exercise Science.
Please ensure that you check the UCAS points required at your University choices.
Where Your Course Can Take You
After completing your Extended Diploma, you could:
Progress to university or college to study a degree (check UCAS points for entry)
Start a career in the sports industry
The UK’s sport and active leisure industry supports over?450,000 jobs?and is worth?£20 billion?– and it’s still growing!
This course is best suited for those who want to pursue careers in:
Semi-professional / Professional Sport
Elite Level Sports Coach
Sports Performance Analyst
Strength & Conditioning Coach
Sports Psychologist
Physiotherapist / Sports Therapist
(some roles may require further study)
For more info on specific careers, check out the National Careers Service website.
Fees
If you are a UK or home fee status student and aged 16-18 on the 31st August before the start of your course, tuition fees are free. If you are aged 19 and over fees may be payable.
There will be costs for uniform approximately £100 and trips associated with your course TBC.
There will be additional costs for your training (as this is in addition to your educational course).
Financial support could be available depending on your circumstances.
Please check our Finance pages for fee information and any financial help that may be available.
Why Choose Easton College?
Elite facilities
Our sports facilities are among the best in the region and include the largest indoor tennis venue in the East of England, 3G pitches and gym and fitness centre.
Large, growing industry
The sport, health and fitness industry is worth £20bn and growing.
Industry expert teachers
You will learn from expert teachers with extensive experience in the industry.
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