Back to search results

Cambridge Technical Sports and Physical Activity Extended Certificate

Athena Sixth Form College - Downham Market

Bexwell Road, Downham Market, Norfolk, PE38 9LL

Vocationally-related Qualification (VRQ)
Level 3
Leisure, Travel and Tourism

Available start dates

Available start dates

Tuesday, 01 September 2026
Athena Sixth Form College - Downham Market
2 Year(s)
Full time
Daytime/working hours

Application Instructions

Please apply through our website at https://asf.tela.org.uk/

General Entry Requirements

A Level Programme Entry Requirements

  • Minimum of 5 GCSEs at grade 6 or above
  • Minimum of a 6 in English and Maths and Science if taking A level Sciences.

The opportunity to study four Advanced level subjects will be offered to some particularly well-qualified applicants, currently defined as students who have achieved at least an average grade 7 across their best seven GCSE subjects.

Vocational and Applied Diploma Entry Requirements

  • Merit at Level 2 in chosen area of study
  • Minimum of 5 GCSE's at grade 4 or above including at least a grade in English and Maths

**Please refer to each subject's entry requirements for additional entry requirements for that subject**

Course Summary

At Athena, we are proud to offer two Level 3 qualifications in Sport. This option - the Extended Certificate - is equivalent to one A-Level and can therefore be studied alongside 2 other subjects. Our other offer - the Diploma - is equivalent to one A-Level and can therefore be studied alongside 1 other subject.

Course Details

  • Unit 1 Body Systems and the Effects of Physical Activity (Exam)
  • Unit 2 Sports Coaching and Activity Leadership
  • Unit 3 Sports Organisation and Development (Exam)
  • Unit 5 Performance Analysis in Sport and Exercise
  • Unit 8 Organisation of Sports Events

It is also an option to have Football timetabled in for students, so they can experience this as a regular enrichment opportunity.

How will it be delivered and assessed?

The Extended Certificate does not include assessment in a practical sporting activity, making it a great option for learners who prefer a more theory-focused route. The assessment format is as follows:

  • 2 exam units
  • 3 coursework units - there are practical elements to some of these (eg. sports leadership unit)

The full list of these can be found in the 'content' box.

The qualification for the Extended Certificate is graded as Pass, Merit, Distinction or Distinction*.

The course also features enrichment opportunities to enhance students’ practical skills and industry knowledge. These include work placements, sports leadership programs, guest speakers, industry visits, extracurricular sports clubs, and specialised workshops. Notable trips include:

  • Trip to Tottenham Hotspur Stadium
  • Wembley Stadium Tour
  • Trips to Go Ape

Entry requirements

4 in GCSE P.E (or an equivalent: Level 2 Pass in Cambridge Nationals).

Your next steps...

The Level 3 Cambridge Technical Sport course provides a comprehensive foundation for students aspiring to pursue careers in the sports industry or further their education. Graduates of this program can explore various pathways, including:

  • Higher education opportunities such as university degrees in sports science, physical education, sports coaching, sports management, and physiotherapy.
  • Professional roles in the sports industry like fitness training, sports coaching, sports development, and leisure management.
  • Apprenticeships and specialised training programs in various sports-related fields.

These qualifications equip students with practical skills and theoretical knowledge that are highly valued, fostering the development of a well-rounded skill set that meets the dynamic demands of the sports sector


For more courses like this, check our courses page.