Interested in sport, fitness, and how exercise affects the human body? Then you are not alone. Sports Coaching, and Sport and Exercise Science industries have seen a continued growth in line with the expansion of the sport and physical activity sector which offers a rich variety of interesting and rewarding career opportunities.
We have developed a series of courses that allow you to kick off at level 1 or, if you already have appropriate qualifications, jump in at a higher level and progress up to level 3 and onto University.
Each level adds additional depth and knowledge with units ranging from Anatomy and Physiology, Psychology, Biomechanics of movement, Nutrition, and Sports Injuries. You can choose from pathways in Sports Coaching and Development, or Sport and Exercise Science, and you’ll benefit from a well-rounded educational and sporting experience. Students also develop skills that are transferable and valued by other industries such as leadership and teamwork, communication, and problem solving.
Choose the college with a proven track record that will inspire you to succeed and turn your passion into a career.
BTEC Level 3 National Extended Diploma in Sport and Exercise Science.
I am really enjoying my time at NHC, it’s a good environment and everyone is so happy and cheerful. The teachers, and everyone around the college, are ready to support us with anything from assignment work, to pastoral concerns and they always do their best to help- it feels like a big family!
BTEC Level 3 National Foundation Diploma in Sports Coaching and Development.
The Sports Coaching course is very fun and interesting. I learn new things all the time, even when I think I know something it goes into more depth! This course is all coursework based, I find this really supportive as it as it helps you to track your progress and grade throughout the year. The practical side is great as you get plenty of opportunity to coach lessons, as well as learning new sports that you may not have played before. I have had the opportunity to learn about the business side of sports, as well as target groups. The assignment briefs and specifications are easy to follow, and the sports team are really friendly and are always there to help you.
BTEC Level 3 National Extended Diploma in Sport and Exercise Science.
I’ve really enjoyed being a student at NHC studying on the Sport and Exercise Science course. The programme is brilliant, very interesting, and in-depth; there is so much to learn and the practical sessions are really fun too! My favourite unit that I have studied this year has been anatomy and physiology as I particularly enjoy learning about the structure and function of the body. Additionally, we have had guest speakers deliver virtual talks to us about the different courses they have studied at university, how it helped them to achieve their goals and how they handled any challenges they faced along the way. I would definitely recommend this course to anybody who is interested in learning more about the body, muscles, and sports related topics - the teachers are very good at their job so coming to NHC is a win win situation!
Liz Calver
Head of Curriculum for Sport and Public Services.
I am really pleased you’ve found your way to this part of the website- if you’re someone who is passionate about sport, or making a difference in your community, then one of our programmes could definitely be for you! We have a wonderful team of dedicated staff within the department who are all experts in their fields; you can read more about them in the ‘who’s who’ below.
On behalf of all the team, we look forward to meeting you soon and welcoming you to NHC!
Emma Ball
Deputy Head of Curriculum Sport and Public Services, and Course Team Leader- BTEC Level 2 Diploma in Protective Services.
My role is to assist with the day to day running of the department as well as course team lead on the Level 2 Public Services programme. My background is originally in sport, previously working as a strength and conditioning coach but I have a keen interest in criminology, politics and love a good crime documentary. I look forward to meeting you soon.
Chris Bentley
Course Team Leader- BTEC Level 3 Extended Diploma in Sport and Exercise Science. Year 1.
I currently run the first year programme for Sport and Exercise Science students. Previously I have worked in the Sport Science industry working for elite football clubs such as Reading and Arsenal FC. I have completed an undergraduate degree in Sport and Exercise Science, Master’s Degree in Sport Performance Analysis and a PGCE. I have a passion to develop students to gain a life-long love of sport and physical activity whilst striving to reach their potential. We look forward to welcoming you to out fantastic college.
Chris Lawson
Course Team Leader- BTEC Level 1 Diploma in Sport and Active Leisure, BTEC Level ½ First Extended Certificate in Sport.
I have a masters degree in Sports Science Performance, having worked at Tottenham Hotspur Football Club and in FE for 4 years. I am passionate about teaching sport and seeing young people achieve their best and progress into careers within the sector. If you see me around campus then be sure to say hi.
James Noonan
Success Coach.
My role is to make sure that you as students succeed academically whilst also gaining knowledge on our employability programme titled ‘The Bridge’. The Bridge Programme is in place to help you grow as an individual and prepare you for your next steps. My role also includes looking after students pastorally, holding regular one-to-one catch-ups with you to make sure you’re on track to succeed and are feeling okay.
Joe O’Dea
BTEC Level 1 Diploma in Sport and Active Leisure
Currently completing a PGCE in Further Education, I’ve recently graduated from university with a Sports Studies degree. I’ve always wanted to be a teacher ever since I left school. I thrive off seeing my students succeed inside the classroom. I plan to complete a master’s degree in sports nutrition in the coming years. I look forward to teaching the next cohort of students who walk through our doors and helping them all achieve their full academic potential
George Payne
Course Team Leader- BTEC Level 3 Extended Diploma in Sport and Exercise Science. Year 2.
I look forward to taking you through your learning journey and providing you with the opportunities to be the best version of yourself.
Ryah Vyse
Course Team Leader- BTEC Level 3 Extended Diploma in Sports Coaching and Development. Year 2.
I have been a part of the teaching team here since 2018. I have taught on the Sport and Exercise Science Programme and more recently the Year 2 Sports Coaching and Development cohort. I have a degree in Physical Education and a second in Psychology. I studied in America on a soccer scholarship which allowed me to play football for four years, alongside my studies. When returning to England in 2017, I continued my playing career at Spurs Women for two seasons and I am now in my second season with Watford Women!
I’m always excited for the new students to arrive and to take their next steps into college life. Watching students develop not only as pupils in the classroom but also as people is the highlight of my job!
Ross Ward
Course Team Leader- BTEC Level 3 Extended Diploma in Sports Coaching and Development. Year 1.
A passionate educator and have been working at NHC since 2011 working on a wide range of courses from Level 1 to Level 5 Foundation Degree/ HND programmes. My values include professionalism, respect, honesty, accountability and self-development which have been developed through my experiences teaching and coaching. I enjoy new challenges and have taken part in a wide range of fitness and coaching qualifications including UEFA B certification using this to work as an academy coach at Stevenage FC as well as being a qualified personal trainer and assessor supporting learners to enter the fitness industry.
Sports Coaching
Sports and Exercise Science
We have developed strong links with the local community over many years and continue to expand and nurture these relationships. Students will benefit from regular talks with guest speakers from across the sport and physical activity sector as well as attend external trips to sporting venues and sports clubs.
Work experience opportunities include physiotherapy shadowing, where you can observe the working role of a physiotherapist including manipulation techniques, deep tissue massage and gait analysis. The chance to work alongside PE Teachers at local schools, assisting with the design and delivery of sessions, or to shadow Personal Trainers and Fitness Instructors at local gyms.
We are very proud that some of these partnerships now also include alumni sport students.
