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Course overview

The Access to HND Sports Coaching and Development course is designed to enhance your knowledge of sports coaching and is a direct route to further study at the HNC/D level.

This year-long course will develop your confidence and enhance your leadership and transferable skills through regular practical activities, preparing you for further education and a rewarding career in the sports and fitness industry. 

There is the opportunity to gain:

  • National Progression Award (NPA) in Sports Coaching
  • SCQF Level 6 Qualification in Sports Leadership
  • Opportunity to gain industry-recognised coaching qualifications with National Governing Bodies (NGB's) in a range of sports
  • An Emergency First Aid qualification
  • Practical coaching experience through placement with a local Active Schools Coordinator

There is a focus on practical participation in sports and physical activities to enhance and complement your existing performance and coaching abilities. This will be supported by a level of classroom work that is reasonably challenging to develop knowledge and understanding of the industry. To succeed in this course, you should have a keen interest in sports, leading activities or coaching, and regularly participate in sports and physical activities. 

Course description

What you will learn

  • Introduce you to the concept of sports coaching.
  • Gain both practical experience and theoretical knowledge across many indoor and outdoor sporting activities.
  • An understanding of how the body works and adapts to the effects of exercise.
  • The basic theory and application of sports coaching.
  • Develop session planning, delivery and self-evaluation skills.
  • How to improve and test components of fitness.
  • Develop your communication, leadership and organisational skills.

Entry requirements

  • Three National 5s at C or above, to include English and/or a relevant NPA.

Progression

  • Year 1 of HND Sports Coaching and Development is taught at Edinburgh College.

Career opportunities

Although this course is primarily aimed at progression onto the HNC/D in Sports Coaching and Development, it may be possible to gain employment in positions such as: 

  • Sports leader 
  • Sports coach assistant 
  • Sports coach 

Course options

Course Type: Full-time
Details
Date: 24/08/2026 to 11/06/2027 Cost: £1008
Venue details

Granton Campus

350 West Granton Road

Edinburgh

Course provider

Edinburgh College