SQA Advanced Certificate/Diploma in Sports Coaching and Development
SQA Advanced Certificate and SQA Advanced Diploma qualifications provide practical skills and theoretical knowledge that meet the needs of employers.
The SQA Advanced Certificate (SCQF level 7) and SQA Advanced Diploma (SCQF level 8) in Sports Coaching and Development gives learners the knowledge and skills necessary to work as professionals within the sector.
The topics covered range from human anatomy, physiology and biomechanics to sports coaching, sports development and professional practice — including research skills.
The SQA Advanced Certificate includes an embedded, stand-alone, industry-recognised Professional Development Award (PDA) in Sports Coaching at SCQF level 7, and the SQA Advanced Diploma includes an embedded PDA in Sports Coaching at SCQF level 8. Both PDAs are jointly certificated with sportscotland and the Chartered Institute for the Management of Sport and Physical Activity.
This qualification is available through a growing number of colleges, training providers and universities around the world. Typically, an SQA Advanced Certificate takes one year to complete and an SQA Advanced Diploma takes two years.
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Why deliver this qualification
SQA Advanced Certificates and SQA Advanced Diplomas have been developed by SQA in partnership with colleges, universities and industry — so employers recognise that they provide sound evidence of ability.
The unit-based structure supports flexible delivery. A unit is typically 40 hours of timetabled learning.
There is a wide choice of optional units which will enable centres to offer courses tailored to meet local needs.
The SQA Advanced Certificate/Diploma provides progression routes to further study (see Progression).
Who does this qualification suit
The SQA Advanced Certificate and Diploma in Sports Coaching and Development is suitable for a wide range of candidates, including:
- school leavers
- adult returners to education
- individuals in employment who wish to enhance their career prospects
- people who wish to start their own business
Entry requirements
As with all SQA qualifications, entry is decided by the college or learning provider. As a guide, the college or learning provider will look for:
- school-leaving qualifications equivalent to Level 3/ SCQF level 6, meaning the student has the ability to study at the higher level
- a centre-devised test which shows the student’s ability to study at SQA Advanced Diploma level
- relevant work experience
Progression
The SQA Advanced Certificate in Sports Coaching and Development can progress to the SQA Advanced Diploma in Sports Coaching and Development.
The SQA Advanced Diploma in Sports Coaching and Development can provide advanced entry to degree-level study.
What approvals are needed?
Centres with devolved authority for approval should use their own internal approval process.
Centres without devolved authority are required to come forward for approval and should contact SQA’s Business Development Team for guidance.
Assessors and verifiers must be able to meet SQA’s general requirements for technical/occupational competence as outlined in the Systems and Qualification Approval Guide.
The embedded PDA in Sports Coaching at SCQF level 7 is available for delivery within further education colleges only.
How to assess
Each individual unit specification gives detailed information on the evidence requirements and approaches to assessment for each nit.
Ongoing course assessment will apply.
Assessment/e-assessment support packs are available for this qualification.
Qualification structure
SQA Advanced Certificate in Sports Coaching and Development
Group Award code: GT8V 47 (96 SCQF credit points)
SQA Advanced Certificate Sports Coaching and Development at SCQF level 7 consists of seven mandatory units.
SQA Advanced Diploma in Sports Coaching and Development
Group Award code: GT8X 48 (240 SCQF credit points)
SQA Advanced Diploma Sports Coaching and Development at SCQF level 8 consists of 13 mandatory units.
For further information on the structures and units of these qualifications please refer to the group award specification document.