Year 1

Compulsory modules

• Sport Pedagogy

This theoretical module will help you build the knowledge foundations for all work within Sport Pedagogy. You’ll examine the principles of learner centred coaching and teaching and expand on traditional conceptualisations of pedagogy. So you will view coaching as a profession with the primary goal of holistic education.

You will develop your understanding of traditionally accepted pedagogic approaches and you’ll challenge many of the key assumptions relating to pedagogy that are associated with sports coaching. You’ll also progress your study skills through

 independent work
 lectures
 seminars
 group work
 presentations
 research
 debating
 practical sessions.

• Fitness and Assessment

You’ll develop your basic knowledge and understanding of the principles of physical fitness and health. You’ll also learn to accurately assess certain fitness parameters in both sporting and health settings.

Then using your knowledge and understanding by identifying the main fitness parameters required to optimally perform in certain sports. You’ll also be able to compile an appropriate battery of fitness tests to assess the chosen fitness parameters. By the end of the module you’ll be equipped with the skills to plan and design exercise sessions based on the client's fitness goals.

• Coaching: Practice to Theory 1

This is your introduction to issues that underpin the delivery of a practical coaching or teaching session. You'll examine the practical session as a pedagogical activity and focus on the four interrelated components;

 athlete (learner)
 coach (teacher)
 environment (learning outcomes)
 session aims (learning outcomes).
You will develop core components of the coaching process, and be able to apply key skills in the mechanics of coaching.

• Human Movement and Skill in Sport

You will be involved in theoretical and practical sessions where you’ll examine and understand human movement through motor control and skill acquisition. You’ll explore the applied principles of human movement in a practical context. While you’ll consider the impact of motor control theories in either a coaching or a clinical setting.

You will explore three approaches to motor control and skill acquisition, and you’ll develop the ability to critically contrast these theories. At the end of the module with your knowledge of theorectical comparisons, you’ll consider the applied implications.

• Professional Skills in Sport and Coaching Sciences

Learn about the social competencies required for a professional role in sport and coaching sciences. You’ll also find out about your range of career opportunities that will be open to you.

You will reflect on your current skills and knowledge, and you’ll also have opportunities to develop the competencies needed to become a successful sport professional. You’ll be able to identify future professional development opportunities while developing an evidence based approach to enhancing your employability.

• Introduction to the Sociology of Sport

Examine Sport and Physical Activity in a political, social and educational context. You’ll explore patterns of sociological concepts in relation to sport, physical activity and health. Also you will investigate the consequences for structures, behaviours and the progression of normative values.

Then focus on the consequence of the social relationships and experiences that go to make up human social living. Building your knowledge of sport in society and the impact it can have on society.


• Introduction to the Psychology of Sport and Exercise

Study people and their behaviours in sport and exercise contexts and the practical application of your gained knowledge. You’ll examine core topics within sport and exercise psychology. You’ll cover a spectrum of both well-established (e.g., personality, motivation, confidence, anxiety, and concentration) and more contemporary topics (e.g., addictive and unhealthy behaviour, exercise and wellbeing).

You’ll build a knowledge base of theory, application, and learning. Engaging with topics in:

 lectures
 practical sessions
 weekly reading
 podcasts
 online quizzes.

• Effective Coaching Practice

You will look at the key elements of the coaching process

 the learner
 the coach
 the environment
 and intentions.

To build a solid understanding of what effective coaching is and what it looks like in practice.

Through lectures, practicals and seminars - you’ll develop the skills to analyse and evaluate the coaching process with the support of current sport coaching and pedagogy literature.

Year 2

Compulsory modules

• Coaching: Practice to Theory 2
• Work Experience
• Research Methods for Sport and Exercise

Optional modules

Performance Analysis
Global and Cultural Studies in Sport
Principles of Training for Sport and Exercise
Pedagogic Practice in Teaching and Coaching
Sports Development
Applied Sport and Exercise Physiology
Talent Identification and Development
Independent Study 1

Year 3

Compulsory modules

• Dissertation
• Advanced Coaching Practice

Optional modules

Advanced Practice in Sport and Exercise Psychology
Advanced Social Theory in Sports, Coaching and PE Coaching
Strength and Conditioning for Sport and Health
Professional Practice in Sport Coaching and PE
Inclusive Pedagogies
Independent Study 2

Work placement

Optional modules

Work placements

Our degree has a compulsory, work experience oriented, teaching and learning strand across all three years. This combines lectures and workshops where students look at the range of careers within the sports sector, practise applying for jobs and shadow locally identified professionals. They will be immersed in work-based observation, placement opportunities and analysis as part of this process. Recent placements have included working alongside the coaching team at Oxford United FC, supporting athletes funded by TASS (the Talented Athlete Scholarship Scheme), and placements in local school PE departments.