What is this subject about?

Sports and Lesiure Studies is the academic study of the leisure industry in the wider context and is for students who have a genuine interest in leisure & recreation, sport and fitness along with the development of skills that will enable you to work and communicate effectively either at University or in the workplace.

For the AS level you will study:

6 Unit: The Leisure Industry Today, A People Business (external assessment) and Getting it Right in the Leisure Industry. These provide a foundation of knowledge relating to the business aspects of the industry.

12 Unit: The Leisure Industry Today, A People Business (external assessment), Getting it Right in the Leisure Industry, Leisure Facilities (external assessment), Lifestyles & Life Stages and finally Fitness Training for Sport. These provide a foundation of knowledge relating to the business aspects of the industry as well as some practical units.

For the A2 level you will study:

6 Unit: Leisure In Action, Working in the People Business (external assessment) and Current Issues. Planning, managing and staging a leisure event, the use of computer applications and producing a research project are integral work in the second year of the course.

12 Unit: Leisure In Action, Working in the People Business (external assessment), Current Issues, Leisure & the Media, Lifestyle Management (external assessment) and Outdoor Leisure. Practical activities are an important component of this course including the planning, management and staging of a leisure event, the use of computer applications and practical sports coaching and fitness instruction.

How is the course assessed?

Over the two years, two thirds will be assessed through coursework and one third examinations.

What skills will I need and develop in this course?

Students feel that this course provides them with a wealth of skills for life and builds the confidence needed to pursue employment or higher education. You will be encouraged to develop a range of skills including research, presentations, portfolio building, time management and various practical skills.

Subject combination advice:

This subject does require students to work consistently on coursework and requires a diligent and organised approach. There are units that relate to various aspects of business including marketing, business systems and so it does combine well with Business Studies. It can also combines well with Physical Education, Geography, English and Media Studies, but students have pursued a whole range of other courses alongside this qualification.

What can the course lead to in terms of higher education and future careers?

Many students progress onto leisure and sport related degrees at University including Leisure Management, Sports Studies, Event Management and other business related courses such as Marketing and Advertising. Equally students have chosen to go straight onto employment within the broad spectrum of leisure and sport related jobs.

What are the formal entry requirements for this course?

Aside from the general entry requirements that the College requires, it is advisable to have a grade C or above in GCSE English.

What extra support / enrichment activities are on offer?

The department runs a wide range of visits directly related to the core content of the units studied. These will include local leisure facilities such as Amida Health Club, Chelsea FC, Twickenham Rugby, High Ashurst Outdoor Education Centre amongst others. We also offer an excellent residential trip to Club La Santa Sport in Lanzarote during the second year of the course.

Can you take Sport & Leisure Studies and Physical Education?

Absolutely as they have completely different content and assessment.