Sports Science BTEC National Award

Start Date: September 2010

End Date: June 2011

Venue: Coleg Powys Brecon

Tutor: Stephen Thomas

Who is this course for? The aim of all sports people is to maximise their performance on the day of competition. The BTEC National Sport and Exercise Science course aims to look at sports performance from a scientific angle and studies all the major topics which will affect the quality of a sporting performance. From this knowledge, students can then apply the information to improve and maximise their own sporting potential as well as that of others they might instruct.

Previous knowledge required: A minimum of four relevant subjects at GCSE grade C or above. Other suitable vocational qualifications will also be considered for entry purposes and applications from mature applicants are welcome.

What will I study? The course content reflects this performance approach to sport, and consists of both traditional approaches such as Anatomy, Physiology, Sports Nutrition and Biomechanics, to relatively modern disciplines such as Sport and Exercise Psychology and Sport and Exercise Massage. All of these are delivered through a scientific approach which provides a core element to the course. Students will have the opportunity to explore sport science through a laboratory approach and make use of the Human Performance Laboratory based at the college, which allows scientific analysis of sporting performance.

What else will I do? A unique feature of the Coleg Powys National Award and Diploma are the training opportunities and coaching expertise the college offers through the Academy programme, concentrating on football, hockey, netball and rugby, which is supported with a comprehensive strength and conditioning training programme that runs alongside the academic programme. Students have coaching and conditioning to help them reach their individual sporting potential and the teaching to allow them to reach their academic potential. Key skills will also feature within the overall programme.

How will I be assessed? Units will be assessed through a combination of assessment methods that include assignment, case study, log books, practical skill observations, witness testimony, oral questioning, written questioning, verbal presentation and project work.

What will I achieve? National Award in Sport & Exercise Sciences, OCN qualifications in either football, rugby, hockey or netball. Key skills in Communication and Application of Number.

What can I do afterwards? Progress to the second year of the programme, a National Diploma in Sport & Exercise Sciences. The National Diploma course has a superb record for getting students into Higher Education, with offers being received from some of the top sporting universities in the country, such as Loughborough and Bath. The National Diploma is equivalent to 3 A Levels and the National Award is equivalent to 1 A Level. The course provides the opportunity to work in the ever expanding field of sport science, where qualified professionals are increasingly being utilised by all top sports establishments and clubs.

Materials required: No specific materials or equipment are required for this course.