Courses

Personal Trainer (Gym based) Diploma

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  • Course Type
    Adult Courses
  • Course Code
    PS305
  • Campus
    Oval
  • Start Date
    7th Sep
  • Level
    Level 3
  • Duration
    1 year

This Level 3 course is a technical level qualification that will develop your knowledge, understanding and technical skills needed for a career in sport and the active leisure industry as a personal trainer in gym based exercise.

This qualification is approved by the Register of Exercise Professionals (REPS) upon successful completion of this qualification you will be eligible to register onto REPS and endorsed by CIMSPA (Chartered Institute for the Management of Sport and Physical Activity).

  • Course Details

    Units of study will include:

    • Applied anatomy and physiology for exercise, health and fitness
    • Understanding lifestyle, health, well-being and common medical conditions
    • Encouraging positive health and fitness behaviour in clients
    • Professionalism and business acumen for personal trainers
    • The principles of nutrition and their application to exercise and health
    • Programme design and delivery for personal training

  • Entry Guidelines
    • Level 3 courses are usually 2 years in length.
    • You must have successfully completed the Certificate in Fitness Instructing or equivalent and have a maths or English GCSE at Grade 4/C (or functional skill level 2) to study at this level.
    • Entry requirements for Level 3 courses in some sectors may be more specific. If you're unsure whether you meet these requirements, don't worry — we can help you find a suitable course that aligns with your skills and experience.

    If English is not your first language, you may need an assessment before enrolling on this course. To discuss further, please contact the ESOL department on 0151 551 7144.

  • Where can I progress to?

    At the end of the course, you could progress to:

    • Employment/Self Employment in the Sports and Fitness industry

    Or complete further studies such as:

    • L3 Diploma in Sports Massage
    • L4 Certificate in Strength and Conditioning

  • Timetable
    You will typically be in college for a minimum of 3 days per week. You will receive your individual timetable at the start of your course.

  • Equipment Required

    You will need to purchase a college specified kit. More information will be given at interview.

  • Assessment Methods

    The course is assessed using a combination of practical and portfolio-based activities.

If you're not eligible to study for free, the cost of this course is:

£2225.00

Personal Training Case Study Lily Irvine

Lily Irvine

Personal Training Student

I would definitely recommend the course, and I think even if you’re not sure what to do in the future, I think it’s good because you learn lots of skills, and we learn how to help people.

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Hi, I’m Ailz. What I love most about education is the opportunity to make a genuine difference to people’s lives, help them recognise their own potential, and open doors to new careers and pathways. I began my career teaching English in Further Education, before becoming a mentor for trainee teachers through their placement years. I really enjoyed mentoring and coaching trainees, helping them develop their practice and discover their own strengths as teachers. This led me into teacher education, where I now work as a Programme Lead, supporting the next generation of teachers in the Further Education and Skills sector.

I care deeply about social mobility, the importance of positive relationships, and helping students feel confident and engaged in their learning. I’m a nurturing and approachable teacher educator, and I’m committed to ensuring that every trainee I work with feels encouraged, valued, and supported as they develop their practice.

I’m Sasha. What I enjoy most about working in education is helping people build confidence and realise their full potential. I spent 13 years working as a teaching assistant and Learning Support Assistant before moving into teaching Health and Social Care and Access courses with learners aged 16 and over. These experiences shaped my belief in the importance of positive relationships and adapting teaching to meet individual needs.

Mentoring trainee teachers and coaching colleagues sparked my interest in teacher education, which I moved into in 2024. I enjoy helping trainees connect theory with classroom practice, try out new approaches and find their own confidence as teachers. I aim to create a supportive space where they can ask questions, reflect honestly and feel comfortable seeking advice.

I have a degree in Psychology, a master’s in Mental Health, a PGCE, the National Professional Qualification in Leading Teacher Development and a Postgraduate Certificate in Coaching and Mentoring in Education. These studies continue to inform my interests in inclusive teaching, wellbeing, and supporting others to develop their practice.