This is a practical, hands-on programme designed for learners who are passionate about the outdoors and interested in developing the skills needed for a career in the outdoor sport and adventure sector. This course provides a strong foundation in outdoor activity leadership, coaching skills, and personal development. Learners will take part in a range of outdoor and adventurous activities while building confidence, teamwork, communication, and problem-solving skills in real outdoor environments. It is ideal for learners who enjoy physical activity and working outdoors, and who are considering a future in outdoor sport, coaching, or the wider active leisure sector.
You will need 4 GCSE's at grade 3-9. Or a relevant Level 1 qualification.
| Study level | Cost |
|---|---|
| 16-18 | Free |
Students will be taught through a practical, hands-on approach that combines classroom learning with outdoor activity sessions in real and simulated environments. Teaching methods include instructor-led practical activities, demonstrations, group work, problem-solving tasks, discussions, and reflective learning, allowing students to apply theory directly to practice. Assessment is coursework-based, with no formal written exams. Learners are assessed through a range of methods such as practical observations, activity planning tasks, written assignments, worksheets, presentations, and reflective evaluations, all designed to demonstrate their understanding, skills, and personal development throughout the course.
Achieving a Grade 4 or above in GCSE Maths and English is important, but if you're not there yet, don’t worry! We provide supportive classes to help you meet these essential criteria. These subjects form the backbone of your educational toolkit, opening doors to further studies and exciting apprenticeships. Our sessions in Maths and English will equip you with the skills needed to thrive academically and professionally.
Placement opportunities are an integral part of our curriculum, designed to bridge the gap between academic studies and the professional world. These experiences enable students to apply theoretical knowledge to real workplace challenges, enhancing their academic learning with practical skills. Tailored to complement your studies, placements are offered in a range of industries, from innovative local startups to leading global corporations.
By actively participating in these structured and supportive environments, students not only observe but also contribute meaningfully to the workings of their chosen field. This hands-on approach boosts confidence and provides a competitive advantage in the job market. The insights and experience gained are often transformative, arming students with the necessary tools for a successful and dynamic career. These opportunities are crafted to ensure you emerge as a well-rounded professional, ready to make significant contributions in your future endeavours.
At Northumberland College our commitment to your future goes beyond the classroom. We are dedicated to providing you with real-world experiences and industry insights that will prepare you not just to enter, but to excel in your chosen field. Here’s how we connect you with the industry:
• Placement Opportunities: Dive into your future career with our hands-on placement opportunities. These are not just work experiences, but gateways to potential employment and invaluable learning. They’re a core part of our courses, offering you a chance to apply academic theories in real-world scenarios.
• Networking Events: Build your professional network early. Our placement and careers fairs are your chance to meet and impress potential employers. These events are designed to help you forge significant industry connections that can enhance your career prospects. Attend talks, engage in discussions, and explore apprenticeship opportunities with employers who are eager to meet fresh talent.
• Expert Insights: Stay ahead of the curve with talks from specialist speakers. These industry leaders share the latest trends, challenges, and opportunities in the field, giving you the inside track on what to expect and how to thrive.
• Skills Competitions: Showcase your abilities in our exciting skills competitions. Held throughout the academic year, these competitions are not just about winning – they are about learning, growing, and pushing your limits. They offer a fun, competitive environment to enhance what you learn in class and develop essential industry skills.
Students are expected to attend and study on the course four days per week, with time set aside within their timetable for taught sessions, practical activities, independent study, and completion of coursework.
The course aims to develop learners’ practical skills, confidence, and enjoyment in a range of outdoor and adventurous activities while building essential knowledge of health, safety, and risk management in outdoor environments.
The course supports learners to develop key personal and employability skills such as leadership, teamwork, communication, resilience, and self-reflection, preparing them to work effectively with others and respond positively to challenge.
It also promotes responsible participation through an understanding of environmental sustainability and outdoor ethics, while providing a clear foundation for progression to further study, apprenticeships, or entry-level employment within the outdoor sport and active leisure sector.
Students will study a range of modules designed to develop their practical, theoretical, and personal skills for the outdoor sport sector. These typically include participating in outdoor and adventurous activities, planning and leading outdoor activities, health, safety and risk assessment in outdoor environments, environmental awareness and sustainability, and personal development and teamwork skills. Learners will also develop an understanding of the outdoor sport industry, including roles, responsibilities, and employability skills needed to progress into further study or employment.
On successful completion of the Level 2 programme, learners may be able to progress to a Level 3 qualification in outdoor sport, sport and exercise, or a related subject. The course also provides a strong foundation for those wishing to enter employment or apprenticeships in the outdoor sport and active leisure sector, with potential roles such as outdoor activity assistant, trainee instructor, coaching assistant, or support roles within outdoor centres, leisure facilities, and community sport organisations.
Find out everything you need to know about Northumberland College and our exciting range of courses!
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Rated Outstanding in all areas by Ofsted
2024
Top land-based college in the North East
100% pass rate for equine management and floristry courses
Our extensive re-development programme will create outstanding new facilities