HND Sports & Exercise Sciences

The Sports and Exercise Sciences HND programme follows on from the HNC and is designed for those who want to explore the sciences that underpin a range of disciplines within sport (training and fitness, sport physiology, sport psychology and sports performance), whilst also developing research, personal and professional skills. The programme takes a multidisciplinary and applied approach to the study of sport and exercise science, developing key skills and knowledge. The programme can be studied full time over one year (two days per week) or part time over two years (one day per week) and alongside the course there is the option to gain additional fitness instructor or personal trainer qualifications.

This course is for individuals who are looking to develop essential subject knowledge and skills to progress successfully into further study or employment within the sport sector. You will study a range of units that are aligned with professional bodies and employers across the sport industry.

You will be assessed in a number of formats that reflect different skills needed within sport:

• Written reports and essays
• Practical assessments
• Work-based projects
• Lab reports
• Academic posters, displays, leaflets
• Working logbooks and reflective journals

Academic presentations

You will gain a wide range of sector knowledge and practical skills, developed through evidence-based practice, personal research, self-study, directed study, and work-integrated learning and experience. Units on the course consist of:

• Research project
• Talent Identification
• Contemporary issues in health
• Performance analysis
• Advance Coaching
• Teaching practice
• Work experience

Please note that modules listed are indicative and may be subject to change. We do not guarantee that a non-mandatory unit will always run in any given academic year as options may be dependent on student numbers, sector requirements, and staff expertise.

After successful completion of the HND programme you could pursue a final top-up year to obtain a full degree or secure related employment in the sport sector.

Due to the location of the college, there are many links to local industry. During your course you will have the opportunity to undertake placements with local sports organisations. Work-based experience and a major project will form a key aspect of your course. You will plan, monitor, and evaluate your work experience in relation to subject areas studied on the programme. This allows you to explore the scope and depth of learning which may take place in the work-based context.

The college offers a very high-quality education for HE students. HE student feedback is strong, and students are highly complimentary of their learning experience. HE students have access to specialist facilities and resources to support their programme of study as well as designated HE learning spaces to support independent study.

Here at Warrington & Vale Royal College we have a team of dedicated, experienced staff who can share their extensive knowledge and skills with you. Learning in a friendly and inclusive environment, you will be fully supported to achieve your goals.

You must have the following:

• A HNC in Sport or Sport & Exercise Science

AND

• A* to C grade and/or 9 to 4 in GCSE English (language or literature)
• A* to C grade and/or 9 to 4 in GCSE maths is also recommended.

Non-native English speakers who have not undertaken their final two years of schooling in English need to demonstrate capability in English at a standard equivalent to the levels identified below. This is necessary before being recruited to the programme, as the programme is both taught and assessed in English:

• Common European Framework of Reference (CEFR) level B2
• IELTS 5.5; reading and writing must be 5.5.

All HNC/HND programmes require the completion of a personal statement and curriculum-set task prior to an admissions interview being offered. Further information on this will be provided to you upon receipt of your application. You will also be required to provide a reference from one of the following options:

• A previous course leader/teacher (if progressing from a recently attended further or higher education course)
• A recent or current employer
• An appropriate professional who can provide a character reference (if you have not been in recent education or employment).

Students applying to study on a Higher Education course can apply for a HE student loan at www.gov.uk/student-finance.

For further finance support and enquiries please visit https://wvr.ac.uk/adults/higher-education

Students will be required to purchase the HE Sport uniform for this course at an estimated cost of £90-£150 depending on number of items purchased. All further information regarding the uniform will be communicated at the start of the course.

Trips and residentials will take place throughout the year, which are linked to the course content and implemented to extend your knowledge and allow you develop experiences within the sport sector. These trips may involve additional cost. In previous years students have attended trips to the English Institute of Sport in Sheffield, National Cycling Centre in Manchester, Manchester City FC and Manchester Aquatic Centre. *

*Please note that trips and cost are subject to change depending on the academic year.