Sport & Fitness
Access to HND Sports Coaching and Development
Campus Granton Campus
Qualification SCQF Level 6
Study mode Full time
Start date
Aug 2026
Course enquiry form
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 Development
- SCQF Level 6 Qualification in Sports Leadership
- Industry-recognised National Governing Body Qualifications (NGBs) in sports such as Netball, Volleyball, Football, Handball, and Badminton.
- 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 reasonably challenging level of classroom work 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.
What you will learn
- Introduce you to the concept of sports development
- 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 analysis skills
- How to improve and test components of fitness
- Develop your communication, leadership and organisational skills
Placement information
- Opportunities may arise to work with Active Schools, local schools, sports clubs and community groups through work placement/volunteer opportunities.
How the course is assessed
- You will be continually assessed through a variety of methods, including written assessments, logbooks, group exercises, projects, assignments and practical tasks and observations.
Number of days per week
- 3 days per week
Entry requirements
- Three National 5s at C or above, to include English and/or a relevant NPA
Information on Tests / Auditions / Interview Requirements
- You will be invited to attend an interview where you will be expected to show your knowledge of and active participation in sports and fitness activities, along with knowledge of the role of a sports coach/activity leader
- The interview session may include practical elements based on sports performance, problem-solving, communication skills and written work based on your aims, objectives and knowledge of the subject area
- There will be a one-to-one discussion with a member of the sports and fitness team
English Proficiency Requirements
IELTS 5.5Progression and Articulation Routes
- Year 1 of HND Sports Coaching and Development is taught at Edinburgh College
Career options
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
Study Options
| Campus | Study mode | Start date |
|---|---|---|
| Granton Campus | Full time | 24/08/26 |
