Course Overview
This one-year course is designed to give you a strong grounding in all aspects of sport, with particular emphasis on performance and excellence in football.
A mixture of theoretical and practical teaching, combined with our excellent on-site sports facilities will allow you to put into practice what you learn in the classroom.
All Foundation Diploma students will be able to attend all study tours, field trips and excursions associated their specific area of sporting interest.
Once you have successfully completed this course, you can progress to the second year of the Level 3 Extended Diploma Sport (Football) programme (subject to a successful interview and tutor recommendation).
2 GCSEs at grade 4 or above to include English Language and either Mathematics or a Science.
Modules will include:
- Anatomy
- Physiology
- Coaching
- Business
- Fitness Training
- Professional Development in the Football Industry
Completing some work experience during your course will allow you to gain first-hand experience of the industry, as well as invaluable networking opportunities and contacts.
Once you have successfully completed this course, you can progress to the second year of the Level 3 Extended Diploma Sport (Football) programme (subject to a successful interview and tutor recommendation).
Course Overview
Course information
This one-year course is designed to give you a strong grounding in all aspects of sport, with particular emphasis on performance and excellence in football.
A mixture of theoretical and practical teaching, combined with our excellent on-site sports facilities will allow you to put into practice what you learn in the classroom.
All Foundation Diploma students will be able to attend all study tours, field trips and excursions associated their specific area of sporting interest.
Once you have successfully completed this course, you can progress to the second year of the Level 3 Extended Diploma Sport (Football) programme (subject to a successful interview and tutor recommendation).
Entry requirements
2 GCSEs at grade 4 or above to include English Language and either Mathematics or a Science.
What you will study
Modules will include:
- Anatomy
- Physiology
- Coaching
- Business
- Fitness Training
- Professional Development in the Football Industry
Industry experience and career opportunities
Completing some work experience during your course will allow you to gain first-hand experience of the industry, as well as invaluable networking opportunities and contacts.
Once you have successfully completed this course, you can progress to the second year of the Level 3 Extended Diploma Sport (Football) programme (subject to a successful interview and tutor recommendation).
Why study Sport at Hartpury College?
Hartpury is proud to be the number one sports college in the UK, with millions of pounds invested in recent years to ensure our Sport students can access the best learning, playing and teaching resources.
Study at an Ofsted Outstanding college in a professional sports environment, with access to the latest facilities and expert lecturers. We’ve invested over £10 million into our Sports Academy, so you’ll be using industry-standard sports equipment as you put your lessons into practice.
Why study Sport at Hartpury College?
Hartpury is proud to be the number one sports college in the UK, with millions of pounds invested in recent years to ensure our Sport students can access the best learning, playing and teaching resources.
Study at an Ofsted Outstanding college in a professional sports environment, with access to the latest facilities and expert lecturers. We’ve invested over £10 million into our Sports Academy, so you’ll be using industry-standard sports equipment as you put your lessons into practice.
Outstanding
Rated 'Ofsted Outstanding in all areas' for academic and curriculum-related provision
99.8% pass-rate
With a 99.2% BTEC pass rate (Hartpury College 2025), our outcomes for students are exceptional.
Living in on-site college accommodation at Hartpury, you’ll be part of a vibrant and international community of students of all ages who share their experience of life at college and university together on one campus.
The Hartpury Certificate is an enrichment programme designed to support our students to grow.
A-levels or a diploma?
Are you unsure about whether A-levels or a BTEC Diploma are the right choice for you? Find out the key differences and which qualification would best suit your learning style and your career and further study ambitions on our dedicated page.
Similar courses
Level 2 Extended Certificate General Sport
If you’re looking to transition to Level 3 study but don't have the grades to do so straight from school, our Level 2 sports course is for you. Our students learn through a mix of theoretical and practical sessions, including trips and work experience, to gain an understanding of the competitive sports industries. On successful completion, you could progress onto our Level 3 sports courses.
Level 3 Foundation Diploma Sport (PE and Coaching)
Prepare for a career in PE and sports coaching with this course. Learn through theoretical and practical sessions using our university level facilities. You’ll complete a seven-week work placement at a local primary school and deliver PE lessons.
Level 3 Extended Diploma Sport (Fitness)
If you’re looking for a career in the fitness industry or hoping to progress onto a higher education sports degree, then this two-year course provides an excellent foundation for your development towards your goals. You'll learn through a mix of theory-based and practical sessions including a mixture of fitness, instructing and sports science-based modules. In your first year, you will also complete your YMCA Level 2 Certificate in Fitness Instructing.
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