This advanced study programme is ideal if you wish to build upon your knowledge and skills to develop a career in the exciting and developing outdoor sector. This two year Level 3 study programme is the equivalent of two A-Levels with a focus on developing detailed knowledge and practical skills for working in the outdoor adventure sector. The study programme will provide you with a fantastic combination of theory and vocational training: it’s a full-time study option, and is ideal if you are looking for a practical course with excellent career prospects. You will study a wide range of units associated with coaching, leadership and practical skills development. There is the opportunity to achieve professional accreditation with the Institute for Outdoor Learning, as well as National Governing Body qualifications.
Entry requirements
You will need:
- 4 GCSEs 9–4 or A*–C including English and maths OR
- Level 2 BTEC Diploma in Sport with Functional Skills
You will also need a keen interest in outdoor related pursuits.
Course content
During the course you will study a number of units, including:
- Careers in the Outdoor Sector
- Health, Wellbeing and Sport
- Personal Skills Development in Outdoor Activities
- Applied Leadership and Instructing in Outdoor Activities
- Research Projects
- Health and Safety
- Outdoor Activity Provision
- Expedition Experience
- GCSEs or Functional Skills in English and Maths (if required).
During the summer term of your first year you will have the opportunity to undertake a group expedition and will be required to attend various residential trips. In your first year, you will undertake practical work experience at the Shuttleworth Activity Centre. During the second year you will complete an extended work placement in an outdoor centre or related organisation either locally, nationally or abroad. Throughout both years there will also be various day trips and opportunities to go on practical days away. All trips and experiences are employment-focused with unique insights into the opportunities that working in the outdoor adventure sector provides. There will be optional overseas residential trips to develop skills in activities such as As part of your studies you will also be able to take additional qualifications in sailing, power boating, kayaking, canoeing, stand up paddle boarding, bushcraft,climbing and an emergency first aid at work course.
The study programme will be based primarily at the Shuttleworth Campus, however other venues used include Grafham Water Sailing Club, Big Rock Climbing Centre and further afield locations such as climbing at Stanage Edge in thePeak District and mountaineering in Snowdonia.
Assessment methods
All BTEC work will be assessed through assignments, which can consist of written essays, presentations, group discussion, practical observation and academic posters. Functional Skills/GCSEs will be assessed through formal exams.
Qualifications
- Pearson BTEC Level 3 National Extended Diploma in Sport and Outdoor Activities National Governing Body (NGB) qualifications
- Emergency First Aid at Work
- English and maths qualifications if required
- You can also gain up to 112 UCAS points.
Further study and career options
On successful completion you could progress either onto employment or onto our Sport (Leisure Management) HNC. This course is the perfect lead-in to jobs in the outdoor sector. Many students start their careers as outdoor instructors and work their way up to leadership roles within a few years of experience in the field.
Additional information
To take part in this study programme there will be additional fees for:
- Clothing required for safely participating in water and land based activities. Costs for this are approximately £200
- Compulsory trips throughout the year which total around £450
- Optional overseas trips
- Optional NGB qualifications which start at £200
As well as hosting an exclusive careers event, we have regular guest speakers throughout the year and these can include: National Park Rangers, National Governing Body representatives, exclusive interviews with Outdoor Centre Mangers and other leading Outdoor Professionals. We have also organised charity events at our Shuttleworth College and through our Shuttleworth Activity Centre, raising money for charitable organisations.
Accommodation
If commuting to Shuttleworth College will be difficult for you, then you can choose to live in our halls of residence on campus. Priority is given to those who live the furthest distance from the College so make sure you book early to avoid disappointment. Visit our accommodation page for more information.
Funding information
All full-time Level 1 and Level 2 courses are now FREE for everyone, whatever their age. If you are looking to study a Level 3 qualification, courses are still free if you’re under 19 or 19-23 and studying your first full Level 3 qualification. If you’re over 23 or studying a second Level 3 qualification, you will need to pay a fee. Find out more on our financial support page at www.bedford.ac.uk/finance
If you are aged 19 or over you may qualify for an Advanced Learner Loan to help you pay the tuition fees for this course. Find out more at www.bedford.ac.uk/loans. You can also pay by instalments to help make the cost of this course more affordable.