Quick facts
| Qualification type | Level 3 Diploma |
| Duration | 2 years |
| Study times | You will be expected to be in college for a minimum of 3 days per week, from 9:15 to 4:00. Your timetable will be confirmed at induction. |
| Entry requirements | A minimum of 4 GCSE passes at grade 4 or above, including maths and English. You will also be required to pass an interview. |
| Campus | West Suffolk College Sixth Form Campus, Bury St Edmunds |
| Work placements | Yes |
Is it for me?
The partnership of West Suffolk College and Bury Rugby Club allows you to submerse yourself in elite level rugby and education, and is a tailored programme for 16 to 18 year olds who want to continue their education whilst progressing their rugby career.
Equivalent to three A Levels, this course gives you access to Strength and Conditioning, Performance Rugby Coaching and Injury Rehabilitaion delivered by Bury Rugby Club's Senior Coaching Team, alongside West Suffolk College's Specialist Staff.
The programme includes innovative assessments and units to support you in your development as a sports practitioner alongside a successful career in rugby, with the opportunity for hands-on real life experience and professional development.
You will be coaching rugby, analysing sports performance, and developing an understanding of rugby related injuries. You will have access to highly qualified and experienced staff, who have worked in professional Rugby in a variety of capacities.
You will also access the industry leading facilities at Bury Rugby Club, including opportunities to work with performance analysis specialists, strength and conditioning coaches, and sports rehabilitation experts.
What you'll learn
Some of what you'll learn on this course...
- Developing Coaching Skills
- Health Wellbeing in Sports
- Fitness Training
- Anatomy
- Physiology
Any student who does not hold a GCSE at grade 9 to 4 or equivalent qualifications in maths and English by age 16 will need to continue to study these subjects in each academic year.
Equipment required for the course
Practical sports clothing and a willingness to learn and engage.
Work experience placements
Work Experience remains a crucial part of your development. We have a wide range of partner employers for you to gain a valuable insight into the industry.
Assessment
You will be assessed in a variety of ways which are linked to industry standards and expectations.
Example careers
Personal Trainer
PE Teacher
Sports Coach
Sports Scout
Sports Massage Therapist
Physiotherapist
Umpire
Referee
Nutritionist
Sports Presenter
Sports Journalist
Sporting Event Co-ordinator
Athlete
Sports Development Officer
Leisure Centre Manager
Sports Promotion
Days & times
Starting September 2025