COURSES & QUALIFICATIONS Pearson Extended Certificate in Sport

The Pearson BTEC Level 3 Extended Certificate in Sport, is equivalent to one A-level, combining exams, coursework, and practical assessment.

This qualification is widely recognised by universities and employers. It works particularly well for students who are practical, motivated by sport, and interested in turning that passion into future study or a career.

One of the biggest strengths of the course is that it blends academic understanding with real-world application. Students are assessed through a mixture of exams, coursework and practical tasks, which suits learners who thrive beyond purely exam-based subjects.

The core units delivered are:

Unit 1: Anatomy and Physiology

Students develop a strong understanding of how the body works during sport and exercise, including the muscular, skeletal, cardiovascular and respiratory systems. This underpins progression into sport science, physiotherapy, PE teaching and related degrees.

Unit 2: Fitness Training and Programming for Health, Sport and Wellbeing

A highly applied unit where students learn how to assess individuals, understand lifestyle factors, and design safe and effective training programmes. This links directly to careers in coaching, fitness and health-related fields.

Unit 3: Professional Development in the Sports Industry

This unit focuses on careers, employability and progression. Students explore different pathways in sport, complete a personal skills audit, develop a career action plan, and take part in interview and application-style activities. It’s excellent preparation for both university and the workplace.

Unit 5: Application of Fitness Testing

A very hands-on unit where students administer, analyse and evaluate fitness tests, then provide feedback to performers. This develops confidence, communication skills and applied sport science knowledge.

The qualification is ideal for students who:

Want an A-level equivalent pathway linked to sport
Are considering degrees in sport science, PE, coaching, physiotherapy, etc
Benefit from a balance of theory, coursework and practical learning
Value clear links between education and future careers

Alongside the academic lessons, students receive approximately 4–6 hours per week of structured practical sport and physical training, including performance sessions, strength and conditioning, and competitive opportunities.

Practical elements are fully integrated into Units 2 and 5, ensuring students are consistently applying theory to real sporting contexts.

It is also possible to deliver the qualification over one year for students who are with us for a shorter period.

EXPLORE EARLSCLIFFEDiscover More

BOOK A VISITWe'd love to welcome you to Earlscliffe in person

There's no better way to get a feel for Earlscliffe than to visit us in person. Walk our grounds, meet our staff and students, and explore the town we call home. Plan your visit to find out more.

Explore