Sport (Outdoor Adventure) (BTEC Level 3 Extended Diploma)
Length | Entry requirements | Fees
What does this course offer me?
This course will give you an insight into the various career routes you can take in the outdoor adventure sector.
Tell me about the course in general
The course is made up of up to 20 units including:
- Principles and Practices in Outdoor Adventure
- Equipment and Facilities for Outdoor and Adventurous Activities
- Impact and Sustainability in Outdoor Adventure
- Environmental Education for Outdoor Adventure
- Skills for Land-based Outdoor and Adventurous Activities
- Skills for Water-based Outdoor and Adventurous Activities
- Outdoor and Adventurous Expeditions
- Alternative Pursuits for Outdoor Adventure
The course is a mix of theory and practical outdoor activities and can be physically challenging. There will be times when you are outdoors in cold and wet conditions and you will also undertake at least one camping trip in tents so students should be physically and mentally prepared!
You will spend two weeks in a work related placement of your choice. In the past, students have attended outdoor education centres, climbing walls, indoor and outdoor ski slopes, schools and retail outlets.
You'll need to buy a basic sports kit package along with your own personal outdoor clothing such as walking boots and waterproofs. College will provide the specialist equipment such as harnesses and helmets although students may use their own subject to safety checks. We'll give you more details about this after your interview.
If you need help paying for the sports kit or books, you can apply for a grant from the University Support Fund.
The course also includes several trips and visits throughout the year, which you may need to pay towards. We'll let you know the cost before the trip.
What qualifications will I get?
BTEC Level 3 Extended Diploma in Sport (Outdoor Adventure), which is equivalent to three A levels, plus Functional Skills qualifications in Maths and English.
You may also be able to take extra short courses, including British Canoe Union Star Awards, Foundation Safety & Rescue Training, first aid and leadership and coaching certificates (eg Day Walk Leader Award, Orienteering Level 1 coach)
What can I go on to next?
You could look for a role in the outdoor adventure industry, for example as an outdoor pursuits instructor.
Alternatively, you could move on to a university level qualification, such as BA (Hons) Outdoor Activity Leadership and Coaching at the University of Derby Buxton.
What our students say
Ed Hamer, former student and medal winning climber, said: "The course was brilliant; over the past two years I have learned how to develop my climbing, and how to train others and lead parties of climbers in the outdoors, adhering to health and safety guidelines." Find out more about Ed's success at an international climbing competition.
How you'll learn
How will I be assessed?
The course is all coursework, with various methods of regular assessment.
What do I need to join the course?
You'll need four GCSEs at grades A* - C or Equivalent qualifications. Ideally, these grades will include English and Maths, but we'll consider all applications on an individual basis. You will also be interviewed.
You will also be interviewed and you'll need a good reference from your school, college or employer.
