Description:
FdSc Adventure Sports Coaching (Subject to Validation)

Who is the course for:
The course is designed for people interested in a career in Adventure Sports coaching as well as Outdoor Pursuits instructing and Activity Leadership. Potential students should ideally already have an Outdoor Pursuits interest or work in an outdoor pursuits related industry.

Entry Requirements:
Students should have the required UCAS entry points 80-100 or relevant adventure sports experience for the mature student. We recognize that applicants with a relevant NVQ at level 3 are likely to offer a high level of technical competence as well as practical experience of work in this area. We welcome and will consider all applications on their merits alongside their qualifications. All students are expected to come onto the course with proof of having had a CRB check. Potential students must be prepared to be actively involved with the many practical opportunities whilst on the
course.

What will you do on the course:
This course develops an understanding (academic and practical) of physical performance in the outdoors, and of how the outdoor environment can enhance or diminish that performance. The development of physical performance (skills acquisition) in the outdoors goes hand in hand with study of individual performance and the impact of adventure activities on the environment. Minimum levels of performance are needed for each activity primarily to ensure an adequate level of safe practice.
You will gain a substantial academic foundation in Leadership and Teamwork as well as coaching and instructional techniques to establish a foundation for work within the adventurous activities industry.
The course supports the gaining of qualifications in mountain leadership, single pitch supervision, and inland kayak coaching provided the students attain the level of performance required; this requires an additional commitment of time and money by students.
More traditionally academic modules are also represented through personal professional development, business management and a research project (year 2). Students will also have a work based learning module that allows the student to learn within the Adventure Sports industry itself. We currently have links with many Outdoor Pursuits providers.

How do you study the course:
Based at the Stoke Climsland campus, students enjoy a wide range of specialised courses. Facilities include a golf driving range, equitation centre and cross country course, climbing tower, food innovation centre, residential accommodation, and sports pitches. Through a combination of modules along with a work placement over two years.
Students will be expected to take part in practical sessions on a daily basis. The timetable has been designed to allow athletes to practice and hone their sports specific skills as well as advancing their coaching potential. The course will offer additional opportunities to gain other sports related qualifications on a voluntary basis.

What will you do afterwards:
On successful completion of the course students have the opportunity to carry on with their Higher Education in
he form of a top up one year degree or move in to the ever expanding world of sports development and coaching. Students can use the course specifically the work based learning module to network for their future careers.

Any other information:
* Hours per week vary depending on course year.
** £2000 annual tuition fees. Bursaries available - please contact the HE Administrator for more details 01579 372286 or uni@duchy.ac.uk

Successful candidates may apply for direct entry to a related top-up degree. Mature students are most welcome to apply. Part-time options may also be available.

What is a foundation degree?
Foundation degrees are designed with employers and combine work-related and academic elements. This makes sure that the skills and knowledge that you gain during the course are relevant to your future employment. Courses normally last 2 years studied full-time but may be studied over a longer period part-time.

This course is subject to approval by the University of Plymouth.