Open Event
4 November 2026
Join us at our Open Event and discover what makes St John Rigby one of the most popular choices for students across the region.
If you’re passionate about sport and want to understand what drives performance, this one-A Level equivalent course is a great starting point. Over two years, you’ll study scientific theory and apply it to real-world sport, health, and fitness. The course complements other Level 3 studies and covers key areas like functional anatomy, sports psychology, and coaching showing how body and mind work together in sport. You’ll connect theory with practice through engaging, hands-on learning. Whether you’re an athlete, coach, or sport enthusiast, this course brings science to life. It’s ideal for students aiming for careers in sport, health, or fitness or anyone wanting a dynamic, active subject alongside their other studies.
College entry, (please refer to the Entry Requirements section for further details).
You’ll build a portfolio over two years, covering four units:
• 1 Exam (externally assessed)
• 1 Written Task (externally assessed)
• 2 Coursework Units (internally assessed)
This mix of assessment styles helps you apply theory and develop practical skills
Year 1 – External Assessment
• Unit 2: Functional Anatomy – Learn how body systems support movement and performance.
• Unit 3: Sport & Exercise Psychology – Explore how mindset affects athletic success.
Year 2 – Internal Coursework
• Unit 6: Sports Coaching – Plan, deliver, and evaluate coaching sessions.
• Unit 10: Physical Activity for Individuals & Groups – Design tailored exercise programmes using your knowledge of anatomy, psychology, and coaching. This course blends science and practice to prepare you for sport-related careers.
This course is suitable for anyone with an interest in sport and who wants to gain a sport related qualification to aid their progression to employment or further study in a related subject. Possible careers or further study could include the following areas but is not limited to: Health & Fitness industry, Sports Science, Nutrition, Sports Rehabilitation, Sports Development, Coaching and the Outdoor Activity Industry.
Our Elective Programme is designed to help you develop your gifts and interests as part of an enhanced level 3 programme. We will help you realise your potential by nurturing your talent and preparing you for study at the most prestigious universities or for progression to competitive higher-level apprenticeships. Your options range from our Honours Programme, which might include following a fourth A level, to specialist Futures Programmes that will support your career goals.
If you’re not quite ready to start on a Level 3 Technical course (T Levels) or a Vocational Level 3 course (BTEC) but want to begin on the path to your chosen career, the Transition Programme could be for you.
Transition Programmes are tailored to prepare students to move onto Technical or Vocational Level 3 study. They will give you the opportunity to improve your English and Maths, your work readiness skills and introduce you to the technical skills and concepts that you will need for future study and employment.
As part of the Transition Programme you will study a BTEC Level 2 Award in your chosen subject area as well as the BTEC Level 2 Extended Award in Work Skills. You will also have the opportunity to resit GCSE English and/or Maths if you have not yet achieved a grade 4.
Entry criteria for Transition Programmes is four grade 3s including grade 3s in English Language and Maths GCSE.