Level 3 National Diploma in Sport, Fitness and Personal Training

100% internally assessed, this course is highly practical and progression focused, it allows for practical and professional skills development. Intended for post 16 learners who want to progress directly to employment or self-employment in the fitness sector.

Academic Year: 2024/25
Course Code: 11194
Campus: Downpatrick, Lisburn
Study Type: Full-Time
Education Level Further Education
Department: Sport & Recreation
Course Overview
This course is a two year programme which is equivalent to two A-Levels.  In the first year of the programme you will complete a Extended Certificate (1 A-Level equivalent) and will have the opportunity to exit at this stage.  Those progressing to year two will top-up to the Diploma.   The course will give you a wide range of skills and behaviours required for working in the sports and fitness industry. Learners will develop their sport, fitness and personal training skills so that they can work independently as personal trainer. There is an attendance commitment requirement of 15 hours per week.

Mandatory Units:

- Careers in the Sport and Active Leisure Industry 

- Health, Wellbeing and Sport

- Fitness Skills Development 

- Personal Trainer Skills Development

- Self Employment in Sport and Physical Activity

- Nutrition for Physical Performance

- Business and Technology in Personal Training

Optional Units:

- Self-employment in Sport and Physical Activity

- Fitness Training

- Organising Events in Sport and Physical Activities

- Fitness Testing

*The optional units for this course may vary from year to year.  Units may vary due to the availability of staff.

You want to progress directly to employment or self-employment in the outdoor activities sector as an outdoor activities instructor. Additionally, the breadth of the optional content in the qualification allows learners to widen their progression opportunities. Learners may progress to a number of different higher-education courses or to work in the sport or fitness sector in associated roles, such as personal trainer, gym instructor and strength and conditioning. 

The underpinning knowledge, skills and behaviours needed to work in the Sport and Fitness sector. You will focus on exploring factors affecting the fitness sector and how to maintain health and safety, including respect of the equipment, facilities and safe delivery of physical activity sessions. You will develop and reflect on your personal skills and environmental responsibilities when delivering various fitness activities.

The variety of practical units which will put you in a real fitness environment.

This qualification is aimed at learners looking to progress to employment as an Fitness Instructor.  The qualification will attract UCAS Tariff points and is recognised by higher-education providers as contributing to entry requirements for many related courses. When combined with other qualifications, such as A Levels or another BTEC National Foundation Diploma, in a two-year, full-time study programme, learners can progress to higher education degree programmes, such as our Foundation Degree Sport Coaching and Fitness.

A minimum of 4Cs at GCSE level (or equivalent) or a Pass at level 2 and a keen interest in sport and the fitness industry. 

Enquiries Information

For more information or help with this course send us an enquiry and a member of our team will get back in touch.

Available Sessions

Sorry you cannot currently apply online for this course.

For more information or help with this course please complete an enquiry form.

Customer Enquiries

Need more information or have a question about this course? Send us a message below and we will get in touch.

Start New Enquiry

Terms & Conditions

Students will be required to comply with SERC's Terms & Conditions of study.

We strive to ensure the description of courses on SERC's website and in publications is accurate. However, for various reasons there may be occasions when the College may need to change arrangements or be unable to deliver classes due to circumstances such as reduced funding. If there are insufficient numbers applying for a course it may not be viable to deliver the class.

Further Education

Further Education

If you have just completed your GCSEs, Further Education is most likely the option for you. FE covers qualifications from entry to higher level qualifications such as Awards, Certificates, Diplomas, NVQ, BTEC and Apprenticeships.

Explore Further Education