COURSE INFORMATION

The course gives you the knowledge and skills necessary to work as professionals within the sector. The topics include Coaching Theory and Practice, Sports Development, Anatomy & Biomechanics, and Professional Practice (Including research skills). This HNC includes an embedded, industry recognised Professional Development Award in Sports Coaching that is jointly certified by Sportscotland CIMSPA.

 

This course combines elements of theory and practical application of knowledge and skills and is suited to you if you have an interest in sports and physical activity development as a career. If you have experience of sports leadership or community sports then this is the course for you. 

You will undertake placements in a community setting with a range of client groups including children, and those with disabilities. These provide opportunities for you to engage in a workplace environment and gain relevant industry experience to prepare you for employment. The course is assessed in a holistic way, using a variety of assessment methodologies, including practical observations, portfolios, and group work.

  • Health & wellbeing for sports performance 
  • Performance practice
  • Observation and analytic skills
  • Communication skills
  • Supporting, mentoring, motivational and role model skills
  • Working effectively with different ages, stages and abilities
  • Ethical Practitioner 
  • One year full-time
  • Part-time study is also available

Human Anatomy, Physiology and Biomechanics. 

Sports Coaching Practitioner: Knowing Self, Knowing Coaching, Knowing Others. 

Sports Development 1. Sports Coaching and Development: Developing professional practice.

Graded Unit 1. The Graded Unit allows the candidate to explore a topic that is of particular relevance to their own Future career aspirations. 

Entry requirements for the course include:

External candidates: 

2 Highers at Grade C or above in subjects such as English or P.E for example

or 

Successful completion of the NPA: Sports Development plus 1 Higher at Grade C or above. 

Internal applicants

Successful completion of a Sport and Fitness course at SCQF Level 6. e.g. Advanced Certificate: Sport and Fitness (with a minimum of 13 assessed credits) and a positive ILR

 

Adult returners with relevant Coaching experience and / or other relevant qualifications are welcomed and will be considered on an individual basis.

 

All successful applicants will require a PVG Scheme membership check through Disclosure Scotland in order to go out on a Coaching placement as part of the course. 

  • HND: Coaching and Developing Sport SCQF Level
  • The course has excellent articulation arrangements with 4 Partner Universities enabling access to Degree Level study on successful completion of this course and the subsequent HND
  • It is possible to progress on to a degree at university from this course - see our HE and Degree Pathways guide for more information.

There are many exciting opportunities in the growing Sport, Fitness and Leisure Industries e.g. Sports coaching and/ or activity leadership, active school roles, sports development, disability sports development, fitness/ gym staff, leisure centre staff, swimming pool staff, health and fitness staff. Employers may include: local authorities, leisure trusts, national/ sports governing bodies (NGB/SGB), local sports organisations, and private clubs/ hotels.

  • Student expenses may be required for specialist clothing etc.
  • Online Application Form including a Personal Statement
  • Evidence of active participation in Sports & Fitness (please provide details in your personal statement) 
  • You may be required to take part in an informal conversation as part of the application process. This group/individual conversation may be an information session, a portfolio discussion, or a skills based exercise