Sports and Exercise Science BTEC

WHY SHOULD I STUDY BTEC SPORT AND EXERCISE SCIENCE?

You will study several applied sciences to gain further insight into Sport and Exercise Science building on from GCSE Physical Education. It has similarities to A-Level Physical Education in content but differs in the assessment method, thus suiting pupils who prefer coursework-based assessment without the practical assessment of A-Level. In addition to the sector-specific content, the requirements of the qualification will mean that you will develop the transferable and higher-order skills which are valued by higher education providers and employers. For example, the study of field-based and laboratory-based fitness testing requires you to carry out sport science tests, and then to analyse and draw conclusions from their findings.

WHAT WILL I LEARN ABOUT?

On both qualifications, you will explore units including:

Functional Anatomy.
Applied Sport and Exercise Psychology.
Coaching for Performance and Fitness.
Biomechanics in Sport and Exercise Science.

In addition to these, on the Diploma (2 A-Level equivalent) you will study additional units including Sport and Exercise Physiology, Field-based and Laboratory-based Fitness Testing, Applied Research Methods and Specialised Fitness Training.

HOW WILL I BE ASSESSED?

This course has changed nationally as of September 2020 and now includes both examinations and coursework. The course involves externally assessed units sat as public examinations and controlled assessment in Year 12 with an opportunity to re-sit in January of Year 13. The public examinations in Anatomy and Physiology account for 29% of the total marks for the Extended Certificate and 25% of the Diploma. The three-hour controlled assessment in Sports Psychology accounts for 33% of the total marks for the Extended Certificate and 17% of the Diploma. All other units are written assignments (42% in the Extended Certificate; 54% in the Diploma) which are internally assessed, verified and moderated.

WHAT SKILLS WILL I DEVELOP?

Throughout this course you will develop your skills in the following areas:

Applying theoretical content to practical situations within examinations, controlled assessment, and written assignments.
Research techniques.
Report writing and presentation skills.
Communication, teamwork and leadership skills in theoretical and practical situations.
ICT skills to support research and report writing.

WHERE COULD THIS TAKE ME IN THE FUTURE?

You could progress onto Higher Education, where you can study qualifications in Sports Science, Sports Coaching, or Sports Management. It is possible to apply for Sports Therapy or Physiotherapy if this qualification is combined with an A-Level in Science. It could also lead to teaching Physical Education, with relevant further qualifications at University.

The knowledge and skills acquired during this course will enhance employment prospects within the industry in areas such as Education, Applied Sports Science, Sports Development, Coaching, Personal Training or Education Authority roles.

Exam Board: Pearson | Course Code: TB