BTEC First Diploma Sport

BTEC First Diploma Sport

What is the BTEC First Diploma in Sport (Exercise and Fitness)?
This is a one year full-time course which is vocational and therefore work-related. It introduces you to the employment area of Sport, Leisure and Recreation and provides a good basis to progress to further training, education or employment. This is the course for you if you…

• Have an interest in sport, linking both theoretical and practical elements, and the broader aspects of sport and leisure
• Want to develop an understanding of the body†s physiological systems, and how they are influenced by exercise
• Want to learn about sports injuries and how to assess risks in sporting situations
• Want to develop your own practical skills and techniques in structured sessions
• Want to be able to plan and carry out a fitness training programme
• Have an interest in the psychological and lifestyle factors that affect performers
• Would like to develop your IT skills through assignments and class work

Is a First Diploma in Sport suitable for me?
Many of the students find the vocational nature of the course both stimulating and purposeful, providing a real insight into the sport and leisure industry. The work experience ties in well with many aspects of the course, particularly the work-based project in sport, fitness training, and health and safety units. It also reinforces the links between the aims of the course and future employment.

The manner in which the course is assessed also attracts student to it. Many students prefer coursework to examinations, allowing them to achieve good grades and develop their confidence and self-esteem.

How will I learn?
You will study six units during the year, some of which will be classroom based and others will take place in either the Sports Hall, Fitness Room or at off-site venues. You will enjoy a variety of assignments and challenges. You will find yourself working with others, applying key skills and improving on both your own knowledge and performance throughout all the units of the course.

While there is much theoretical knowledge to be acquired in some units, many have a vocational application so you will not spend all your time in the classroom. You will have opportunities to improve on your own practical performance, learn to officiate and take responsibility for running activities.

Assignments will be set and you must be well-organised to ensure that the deadlines are met. You will be expected to do a considerable amount of work outside lessons, reading and researching for your assignments, so managing your time will be important.

How will I be assessed?
The course is made up of six units:

• The Body in Action
• Health, Safety and Injury in Sport
• Preparation for Sport
• Practical Sport
• Fitness for Sports Performance
• Work-based Project in Sport

All units will be assessed and graded by your teachers. At the end of the course points gained will combine to form an overall grade. You can achieve a pass, merit, distinction or distinction*. As part of your course ,you will also undertake the sports leaders qualification.

Progression
A BTEC First Diploma prepares you for either progression (with a Merit or Distinction) to an Advanced course such as the BTEC National Diploma in Sport , an AS/A2 level programme of study, further training (Gym Instructor) or employment (e.g. in Sports and Leisure Centres).

Course costs
All students will be expected to provide their own folders, textbooks, stationery, computer disks or memory sticks and calculators (where appropriate).

Essential: £17 for textbooks. There will be some additional costs for this course, i.e. trips and visits - approximately £30.

You will be expected to provide suitable sportswear for the practical sessions.

In addition you will need to pay for a CRB check, if you have not already had one.

If the costs of equipment, materials and trips may cause you financial hardship, there is the opportunity to apply for help from the College Access Fund.

You may have the opportunity to take part in an optional outdoor adventure week in March or April. This will cover theoretical and practical aspects of an Outdoor and Adventurous Activities unit, delivered in a fun, motivating, engaging and inspiring way. This unit can be used towards your final course grade. The week will cost approximately £300 and take place during term time.