Peterlee Campus
Course overview
Fancy a career in sports coaching, PE teaching or the leisure industry? At East Durham College, we've developed our NCFE Level 2 Diploma in Sport, Exercise & Fitness based on what employers' needs are, and in response to what they are looking for.
There's loads of exciting stuff on this course; you'll spend some time in the classroom learning the theory behind sport, as well as take part in practical activities using the incredible sports facilities at our Peterlee campus.
You'll also gain real life work experience in your desired career of choice, and get the opportunity to participate in many of our sporting academies that we offer here at the college.
Topics
In the Level 2 programme students will study the following 7 units:
Mandatory Units:
• Anatomy and Physiology for Exercise
• Participating in Sports
• Introduction to Healthy Exercise and Nutrition
Optional Units:
• Planning & Running a Sports Event
• Performance Analysis
• Plan, Deliver & Evaluate an Activity Session
• Development of Personal Fitness through Training
Units are a mixture of practical and theory elements, assessed in different ways, including written assignments, presentations, practical observations, and production of videos.
The course is a 1-year programme and once all units are complete, students can progress onto a level 3 sports coaching programme, however if you have a grade 4/C in maths and English you may be considered for level 3 sports science.
As part of the course, you will be gaining industry experience where you will develop many employability skills that will set you apart from the rest. You will gain key skills such as time management, organisational skills, communication skills and observing and providing feedback whilst on placement. This can be selected by you or guided by your lecturer to help prepare you for your desired job role. On level 2, you will be expected to complete a minimum of 36 hours of work experience within the sport/exercise sector.
Job opportunities after this course
• Activities Instructor
• Fitness / Gym Instructor
• Lifeguard
• Nutritionist
• Personal Trainer
• Sports Therapist
• Strength and Conditioning Coach
• Teacher / Lecturer
... and so much more!
Further study options after this course
Successful students can progress onto BTEC Level 3 upon achievement of the required grades, and may also move into employment in the sports/leisure industry e.g. coach, leisure attendant, etc.
Entry requirements
Our entry requirements are reviewed annually and are subject to change as qualifications, awarding bodies and assessment criteria evolve.
For the latest qualifications and grades required by course type/level, please follow this link to check the most up-to-date entry criteria for direct entry and internal progression at the college.
How is this course assessed?
You will be required to complete 12 individual units. 10 of these will be assessed internally by your subject lecturer, and 2 units will assessed externally using on-screen exams.
When does the course start?
September 2025
Length of course
This course is a 1 year, full-time study programme at East Durham College's Peterlee campus.
Fees & Funding
Please read our Course Fees & Funding page.
How to apply
To apply online for this course, please click on the 'Apply' button at the top/bottom of this page.
Alternatively, if you need assistance with your application or you would like to apply over the phone or using a paper-based application form, please call Student Services on 0191 743 0149.
If you're not quite ready to apply for this course and would like some more information or to speak to a member of staff then please click on the 'Enquire' button at the top/bottom of this page.
