Level 3 Sport (Cambridge Technical OCR Introductory Diploma 05409 & 05415)
Course Overview
This course is for students with a passion for sport and the sports industry.
In year 12 students undertake the introductory diploma in sport. This comprises of six units and is equivalent to one A-level. In year 13 students complete a further six units.
Together with the units studied in year 12, this will lead to a diploma in sport, which is equivalent to two A-levels. All units are centre-assessed and externally moderated by OCR. The full qualification and units from this course are graded as pass, merit, distinction or distinction star.
You will cover topics including coaching, health, fitness, injury, local and national sport and the sports industry. The course has a strong practical emphasis and includes work experience visits to sporting facilities to learn, study and practice new skills.
You can study sport studies/ sports science or physical education teaching at degree level. Many jobs in the sport and leisure industry are now looking at sports studies/ physical education as an essential background for future development. Sports studies is also an advantage when applying for roles in leisure management, gym instruction and sports coaching.

“Put the effort in and you will reap the rewards!”
St Ivo Student
Key Information
Minimum Entry Requirements
- Five 5’s including English and 4+ in maths
- Level 2 merit in BTec/ vocational sport if studied
Exam Board: (Cambridge Technical OCR Introductory Diploma 05409 & 05415)
Assessment
- 25% Exam
- 75% Coursework
How to apply
Choosing your post-16 options is an important decision, and St Ivo Academy Sixth Form is here to guide you. Applications are welcome from students in St Ives and beyond via the MyChoice16 platform.
Step-by-step application process
- Log in to your MyChoice16 account.
- Select ‘My Applications’. To start a new application, click ‘Start a new Application’; to continue an existing one, click ‘Continue’ next to your application.
- Complete all sections of your Profile Template if this is your first application. For additional applications, only ‘Course Choices’ needs to be completed.
- Qualifications will be uploaded by the school—this section can be skipped. Your form tutor will add a reference.
- Complete any remaining fields or checkboxes. Click ‘Send Application’ to submit.
- Your application status will update (eg. Sent, Schools Hold). The school will review your application to ensure it meets the requirements, and you may be asked to discuss it with a teacher.
- Monitor your application regularly and respond promptly to any notifications.
- All applicants will be invited to an interview before a provisional offer is made.
After St Ivo
Sport & Fitness Careers
- Personal Trainer / Fitness Instructor
- Sports Coach / Strength & Conditioning Coach
- Professional Athlete
- Sports Scientist
Healthcare & Therapy
- Physiotherapist / Sports Therapist (with further study)
- Occupational Therapist (with further study)
- Exercise Physiologist
- Nutritionist / Dietitian (with further study)
Education & Teaching
- PE Teacher / Lecturer
- Youth & Community Sports Worker
- Outdoor Education Instructor
Other Related Careers
- Health Promotion / Public Health Roles
- Leisure Centre or Gym Manager
- Event / Sports Management
Contact the subject lead
Paul Cook – Paul.Cook@astreastivo.org