Sports Science

Level 2 Sports Science Cambridge National

Summary

Sports science will encourage students to understand and apply the fundamental principles and concepts of sports science. They will develop learning and practical skills that will benefit them in real-life contexts and work situations. Students are able to develop independence and confidence using skills that are relevant to the Exercise, Physical activity, Sport and Health sector more widely. 


Course Details

Unit R180 (Exam Unit 40%) Reducing the risk of sports injuries and dealing with common medical conditions 

This unit will prepare students to take part in physical activity in a way that minimises the risk of injuries occurring. Students will learn how to react to common injuries in sport, how to recognise the symptoms and what treatment the injuries will require.

Topics covered include: 

  • Different factors which influence the risk and severity of injury
  • Warm up and cool down routines
  • Different types and causes of sports injuries
  • Reducing risk, treatment and rehabilitation of sports injuries and medical conditions 
  • Causes, symptoms and treatment of medical conditions

Unit R181 (Coursework 40%) Applying the principles of training: fitness and how it affects skill performance 

This assignment will consist of 40% of the final grade- the coursework is assessed over 5 different tasks. 

During this Unit students will learn how to design, plan and evaluate a fitness training programme, and will then be able to interpret the data and evaluate their programme. 

Topics covered include: 

  • Components of fitness applied in an individual and team sport (list approved by exam board)
  • Principles of training in an individual and team sport
  • Organising and planning a fitness training programme
  • Evaluate own performance in planning and delivery of a fitness training programme

Unit R182 (Coursework 20%) The body’s response to physical activity and how technology informs this 

This unit will enable students to gain understanding of how both the cardio-respiratory and musculo-skeletal systems provide you with the energy and movements needed to keep you exercising and in turn how exercise helps develop both systems.

Topics covered include: 

  • The cardio-respiratory system and how the use of technology supports different types of sports and their intensities
  • The musculo-skeletal system and how the use of technology supports different types of sports and their movements
  • Short-term effects of exercise on the cardio-respiratory and musculo-skeletal systems
  • Long-term effects of exercise on the cardio-respiratory and musculo-skeletal systems

Level 3 Cambridge Technical in Sport

Summary

The OCR Level 3 Cambridge Technical in Sport is a vocational qualification designed for students with a strong interest in sport, fitness and the wider sports industry. The course combines practical application with academic study and is assessed entirely through coursework rather than final examinations.

Students develop knowledge of sport science, coaching, fitness, leadership and performance, while gaining practical experience that prepares them for higher education, apprenticeships or employment within the sports sector.

This qualification can lead to careers in areas such as teaching, sports coaching, physiotherapy, sports psychology, nutrition, sports journalism and sports management.


Course Details

Students can study one of three qualification pathways depending on their wider Sixth Form programme:

  • Introductory Diploma – equivalent to one A-level

  • Diploma – equivalent to two A-levels

  • Extended Diploma – equivalent to three A-levels

The course includes a broad range of units that combine theory with practical learning, including:

  • Principles of Anatomy and Physiology

  • Sports Coaching

  • Current Issues in Sport

  • The Physiology of Fitness

  • Sports Nutrition

  • Sports Injuries

  • Leadership in Sport

  • Organising Sports Events

  • Fitness Training and Programming

  • Outdoor and Adventurous Activities

  • Performance Analysis

  • Work Experience in Sport

Students will have opportunities to develop coaching, leadership and event management skills alongside gaining a deeper understanding of health, fitness and elite sport performance.


Recommended Entry Requirements

This course builds on knowledge developed in GCSE Physical Education, although GCSE PE is not essential.

Students are recommended to achieve at least a Grade 6 in both GCSE English and Mathematics, as the qualification involves written coursework assignments and some mathematical analysis.

A strong interest in sport, fitness and practical learning is essential.


Further Considerations

This course is ideal for students who enjoy both practical and theoretical aspects of sport and prefer continuous assessment over final examinations.

It provides an excellent pathway into university courses, apprenticeships and careers related to sport, including physiotherapy, coaching, teaching, sports development, fitness industries and sports media.

At Kingsley, this qualification complements our wider sporting pathways and opportunities available through our extensive sports provision and performance programmes.