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Sport & Fitness

HNC Coach Academy

  • Start date:   August 2025
  • Level of Qualification:   SCQF Level 7
  • Course Type:   Full-time

HNC Coach Academy

HNC Coach Academy is delivered by West Lothian College in partnership with West Lothian Council's Active Schools and Community Sports Team.

Start date – Aug 2025 

End date –  Jun 2026 

SCQF Level - 7 

Mode –  Full time   

Days: 3 days per week Monday to Friday

Times: 9am – 12pm and 1pm to 4pm 

Duration: 1 Year

This course seeks to establish a pathway for young people interested in pursuing a career in sports coaching after leaving school, by offering valuable experiences that can lead to further education. The HNC Coach Academy course is the ideal next step for students that have participated in Coach Academy West Lothian whilst at school.  

It will provide you with the essential skills and knowledge to thrive as a professional in this dynamic field. It features an industry-recognised Professional Development Award in Sports Coaching at SCQF Level 7. Whether your goal is to secure a role in sports coaching and development or to progress to higher education, this course is tailored to meet the expectations of learners, employers, and the industry.

  • What the course includes

    This course offers a wide range of learning opportunities to help you thrive in the sports coaching industry. You’ll gain a deep understanding of professional practices and responsibilities, as well as develop hands-on coaching skills that focus on understanding yourself, others, and the art of coaching.

    Dive into the science of sport with knowledge of body systems and biomechanics and learn what it takes to succeed in sports development roles. You’ll also connect again with West Lothian Councils Active Schools and Community Sports Team where you’ll be supported and mentored through your coaching placement; completing around 100 hours of coaching over the course of the academic year

    This opportunity will open doors to exciting volunteering opportunities that will further enhance your skills 

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Why choose this course

This course is for you if you’re seeking to continue to develop your skills as a coach in partnership with West Lothian Active Schools and Community Sport. You will get the chance to lead practical coaching sessions and gain experience working with your peers in college and in the wider community during your placement with experienced Active Schools Co-ordinators. As well as this vital practical industry experience, there is also the opportunity to undertake various sports governing body awards and coaching qualifications. 

You'll have use of our amazing facilities while studying with us, including large games hall, dance studio and fitness suite. The college is an active member of Scottish Student Sport and you’ll have the opportunity to represent the college in various external leagues thanks to our amazing active campus co-ordinator.  

What are the entry requirements?

  • Two Highers at grade C or above, one of which should be English   
  • Level 6 sport and fitness qualification  
  • It is essential for applicants to demonstrate experience of coaching or sports leadership prior to undertaking the course.   
  • We welcome applications from people with relevant life and work experience  
  • The College operates a partnership with the West Lothian Active Schools ‘Coach Academy’ programme, with pupils who successfully complete this programme guaranteed an interview for the course.  
  • An Enhanced Disclosure Scotland application is required which you will do through the college if offered a place.  

If English is not your first language, ESOL Level 5 is an entry requirement for this course.

  • Where will it lead?

    Education: Degree-level courses in sports disciplines, with possible direct entry to year 2 at some universities. Previous students have progressed onto courses at The University of the West of Scotland, The University of Edinburgh and The University of Stirling.  

    Employment: Ideal for those wanting to go into PE teaching, or work in positions such as Sports Coaching, Sports Development Officer or Active Schools Coordinators. 

Interview arrangements

If you are invited for an interview/course information session, plan to be in college for around two hours. The interview includes: 

  • An introduction from the course tutor 
  • An individual interview 
  • Short written task 
  • A brief practical element which may include the multi stage fitness test and participation in a team sport  

Please bring your practical kit and be prepared to take part in fitness testing and team games. Also bring evidence of your qualifications and/or employment references.

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Take that next step in your career and apply for this course today. If the course is not yet open for applications, feel free to ask any questions by clicking make an enquiry.