Coaching and Developing Sport - HNC - Sport and Exercise (SCQF level 7)
Start
25 Aug 2025
End
12 Jun 2026
This course equips you with the essential skills and knowledge for a career in sports coaching. We'll explore the principles of effective coaching practice and build a comprehensive understanding of both practical and theoretical aspects of various games and sports.The qualification offers structured opportunities to immerse yourself in the professional culture needed for successful employment in sports coaching or sports development. It will help you develop confidence, interpersonal, and leadership skills while deepening your expertise in sports coaching and development.The HNC Coaching and Developing Sport program also provides a unique chance to earn industry-recognized coaching awards. Endorsed by the Chartered Institute for the Management of Sport and Physical Activity (CIMSPA), this course opens doors to employment or further education, ensuring you graduate with strong prospects in your chosen field. Full-time students in Scotland may have their tuition fees covered, provided they meet residency requirements. Applications should be submitted to the relevant funding body. International students should consult our Student Finance Department finance@borderscollege.ac.uk
Qualifications
HND Year 1 in Coaching and Developing Sport at SCQF Level 7
Delivery
Full-time 36 week course, 3 days per week in College, Work placement (Approximately 100 hours per year).The HNC comprises of lectures, group work, practical sessions, on-line resource self study and is delivered by vastly experienced professionals. You will be applying your learning within local schools, clubs and health and fitness facilities.
Location
Entry requirements
To be considered for this course, you should have two Highers, such as English, PE, or a Science, at grade C or above, or equivalent academic achievements (Level 6 industry-relevant PDAs/NPAs), or successful progression from a relevant full-time sport course. We also welcome applications from those with alternative qualifications and/or relevant industry experience.Regular participation in coaching and physical activities is expected.The interview process may include a one-on-one interview, a practical assessment, an extended written task, and a reference. PVG Scheme Membership is mandatory for placement.Due to the high volume of applications, meeting the minimum requirements does not guarantee an interview. A well-crafted personal statement will support your application.If English is not your first language, you should have a minimum of SQA ESOL National 5 or equivalent for NC/NQ courses, and ESOL Higher or equivalent for HNC/D courses.
Progression opportunities
Career ProspectsYou could directly enter employment in coaching or sports development roles within various fitness or sports environments, including:Active Schools programsSports-specific development positionsLocal authority sports centers and clubsSports clubs needing coaching and development staff to train players/athletesSchool and community sports clubs and projectsContinuing StudyStudents can advance to the second year of the HND Sports Coaching and Development program or pursue degree-level courses at universities such as UWS, Stirling, Abertay, Napier, and Edinburgh.We strongly recommend contacting universities directly to discuss potential progression routes.
Course Content
You'll study:
Sports Development
Human Anatomy, Physiology and Biomechanics in Sport
Developing Professional Practice
Knowing Coaching
Knowing Yourself
Knowing Others
Graded Unit 1
First Aid in Sport
Coaching Children in Sport
Strength and Conditioning an Introduction
Psychology of Sport and Exercise
Method of Assessement:
Variety of assessments: practical performance, written assignments, presentations, portfolio, exams, placement& coaching delivery.
Questions?
Get in touch for further information, we’re here to help.
01896 66 26 00