Entry Year
Location
Duration
Course Code
Qualifications
Pearson BTEC Level 1 Introductory Diploma in Sport (601/8570/3)
Overview
The Pearson BTEC Level 1 Introductory Diploma in Sport is designed for learners who have an interest in sport, fitness, and physical activity and want to develop their skills, confidence, and knowledge in a practical and supportive environment. This course provides a strong foundation for progression into further sport-related study or employment such as the Level 2 Traineeship in Sport at Belfast Met (May be subject to change).
You will explore a range of units that may include participating in sport and physical activity, understanding the benefits of a healthy and active lifestyle, developing teamwork and communication skills, and learning about basic fitness and training principles. The course places a strong emphasis on practical participation, helping you build confidence while improving your physical ability and personal skills.
Units covered include:
- How exercise affects the body
- Training for fitness
- Coaching skills in sport
- Contributing to running a sports event
- Playing sport
- Being organised
- Working with others
- Developing a personal progression plan
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Assessment is mainly coursework-based, with practical activities, assignments, and projects completed throughout the year. There are no formal exams.
This qualification is ideal for students who are new to the sport sector or who want to build skills for further study. On successful completion, learners can progress to a Level 2 qualification in Sport or related subjects, or entry-level roles within the sport and active leisure industry.
Are you an aspiring sports performer? Why not check out our full time training and competition opportunities within the Belfast Met Sports Academy. You can available of these full-time training opportunities as well as studying your course.
Click on the links below for the Football (soccer) Academy, Athlete Development Programme or Boxing Academy.
Sports Academy - Football - P00876-AA - Course - Belfast Met
Sports Academy - Boxing - P00878-AA - Course - Belfast Met
Sports Academy Athlete Development Programme - P01516-AA - Course - Belfast Met
This course may be delivered across two city centre sites including Millfield & Girdwood
Applicants should have a keen interest in sport and physical activity and be willing to take part in practical sessions and teamwork activities. Applicants must have achieved at least a GCSE grade E in English and a GCSE grade F in Maths. Learners should demonstrate good attendance, positive behaviour, and commitment to the course.
Non-academic course entry requirements
Important: All applicants must also meet the following conditions:
- be 16 years old by 1 July 2026.
- provide proof of:
§ Right to Study in the UK. For courses with work placement, proof of your right to work in the UK is also required.
§ Photographic proof of identity
- Provide translated copies of and/or demonstrate equivalency of non-UK qualifications.
Further information on non-academic course entry requirements can be found at https://www.belfastmet.ac.uk/full-time/further-education/entry-criteria-further-education
Minimum entry requirements are pre-defined by the College’s admissions criteria, which can be found by visiting our entry criteria page on this link
Entry requirements can change and be discussed on an individual basis if necessary.
Proof of qualifications MUST be provided when you enrol e.g. exam certificates.
Achieved and pending qualifications can be recorded on your online application account.
All courses within Belfast Met are delivered and assessed in English, with the exception of language specific courses. Your competence in English must be verified prior to enrolling on your chosen course.
Visit our Student Funding page to find out how to fund your studies.
All fees are set in accordance with DfE regulations.
Please contact the student loan company if you require a loan or our Funding Team by emailing studentfunding@belfastmet.ac.uk
All units are internally assessed through a range of practical and coursework-based activities. Learners complete assignments, projects, and practical tasks throughout the course, which may include observations, written work, presentations, and participation in sporting activities. Assessment is ongoing, with evidence collected over time, and there are no formal examinations.
Careers
On successful completion of the BTEC Level 1 Introductory Diploma in Sport, learners can progress to further education courses such as a Level 2 qualification / Traineeship in Sport, Fitness, or a related vocational subject (May be subject to change). This course also helps develop key skills such as teamwork, communication, and confidence, which support progression into other Level 2 study programmes.
Career opportunities at this level are typically entry-level and may include roles such as a sports assistant, leisure centre assistant, or volunteering within sports clubs, schools, or community organisations. The qualification also provides a strong foundation for continued training and development within the sport and active leisure sector.
Interests
- Sport and Exercise
- Health
- Fitness
- Entrepreneurship
Contact us
School Administrator Tel: 028 9026 5332 or email: hcslinfo@belfastmet.ac.uk
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