This course is based on an integration of theoretical and practical lectures. At diploma level it is equivalent to four GCSEs at C and above. To successfully complete this qualification, the learner is required to complete both core units and four specialist units.

The Core Units will provide students with an understanding of the structure and function of the skeletal system, the muscular system, the cardiovascular system and the respiratory system.

Students will gain a good understanding of health and safety and how they can take precautions in order to try to ensure outdoor activity participants avoid injury.

• Preparation for sport

• Practical outdoor and adventurous activities

• Leading outdoor and adventurous activities

• Expedition experience

Students are given a sound introduction into the outdoor activities of climbing, hill walking, kayaking, sailing and orienteering. They then specialise in two outdoor activities and prepare an expedition through the medium of hill walking.

Your programme of study will include the further development of Key Skills, Wider Key Skills and CoPE, all of which equate to a further four GCSE’s.

We do provide all outdoor students access to attending national governing body qualifications. It must be emphasised that although we endeavour to provide opportunities for students to complete the qualifications successfully, we cannot guarantee all students will meet the prerequisites nor can we guarantee they will achieve the assessment criteria as a high level of skills and knowledge are required to achieve the qualifications successfully.

• British canoe union star tests

• NSRA Diploma

• GNAS (Archery Leaders Award)

• Climbing Wall Award

• BELA / CSLA

• First Aid

Assessment is continuous through assignments. A range of assessment methods are used including written tasks, group and individual presentations, reports, video analysis and practical skill observations. All units are assessed, graded and internally verified. A sample of units is then externally verified. An overall grade for the qualification is then awarded according to the accumulative score of all units achieved.