Coaching and Developing Sport - HNC Year 1 - BASE Mountain Biking (SCQF level 7)
Start
25 Aug 2025
End
12 Jun 2026
This course supports experienced mountain bike performers to develop their individual skills whilst completing a nationally recognised qualification.
The qualification offers structured opportunities to immerse yourself in the professional culture needed for successful employment in sports coaching or sports development. It will help you develop confidence, interpersonal, and leadership skills while deepening your expertise in sports coaching and development. This course is structured around 3 days in college, for academic course work, specialised strength and conditioning sessions, and up to 2 days expert mountain bike tuition through Dirt School.
HNC Coaching and Developing Sport offers a unique opportunity to work towards industry recognised coaching awards. The course is recognised by the Chartered Institute for the Management of Sport and Physical Activity (CIMSPA) and enables access to employment or university. This means you can be confident you will graduate with enhanced employment or university prospects in your chosen field.
Through completion of this HNC there will also be the unique opportunity to gain your Technical Trail Leader Level 2 and Outdoor1st Aid qualifications ensuring you gain the relevant skills, knowledge and experience to provide you with various options on completion.
Full-time students in Scotland may have their tuition fees covered, provided they meet residency requirements. Applications should be submitted to the relevant funding body. International students should consult our Student Finance Department finance@borderscollege.ac.uk
Qualifications
HNC Coaching and Developing Sport at SCQF Level 7
Delivery
Full-time 36 week course, 3 days per week in College which includes 2 Strength and Conditioning sessions, Work placement and 2 days practical with Dirt School
The HNC comprises of lectures, group work, practical sessions, on-line resource self study and is delivered by vastly experienced professionals. You will be applying your learning within local schools, clubs and health and fitness facilities.
Location
Entry requirements
To be considered for this course, you should have two Highers, such as English, PE, or a Science, at grade C or above or successful progression from a relevant full-time sport course. We also welcome applications from those with alternative qualifications and/or relevant industry experience such as:
- NPAs at Higher levels in appropriate subject areas (Sport and Recreation/Sports Development/Achieving Excellence in Sport)
- BTEC Level 3 Diploma or Subsidiary Diploma in Sport
- S/NVQs at level 3
- SGAs at Higher level in an appropriate subject area (Sport/Fitness).
- A minimum of 2 A levels at grades A-D in relevant subjects.
All applicants must have a proven interest in their sport and sports coaching. Selection may be subject to a satisfactory interview session. Interviews will include a 1-2-1 discussion and a group practical session meaning interviewees will need to bring their bike and appropriate kit.
A reference may be required and PVG Scheme Membership is mandatory for placement.
Due to the high volume of applications, meeting the minimum requirements does not guarantee an interview. A well-crafted personal statement will support your application.
On successful entry to the course, the Borders College Sports Kit Bundle must be purchased. Orders will be taken during interview or during information days.
Progression opportunities
Career Prospects
You could directly enter employment in coaching or sports development roles within various fitness or sports environments, including:
- Active Schools programs
- Sports-specific development positions
- Local authority sports centers and clubs
- Sports clubs needing coaching and development staff to train players/athletes
- School and community sports clubs and projects
Continuing Study
Students can advance to the second year of the HND Sports Coaching and Development program or pursue degree-level courses at universities such as UWS, Stirling, Abertay, Napier, and Edinburgh.
We strongly recommend contacting universities directly to discuss potential progression routes.
Course Content
You'll Study:
- Sports Development
- Human Anatomy, Physiology & Biomechanics in Sport
- Developing Professional Practice
- Sports Coaching Practitioner: Knowing Yourself
- Sports Coaching Practitioner: Knowing Others
- Sports Coaching Practitioner: Knowing Coaching
- Graded Unit 1
- Strength & Conditioning: an introduction
- Coaching Children
- Psychology of Sport & Exercise
Methods of Assessments: Practical perfromance, written assignments, presentations, portfolios, exams and practical coaching experiences and placements.
Questions?
Get in touch for further information, we’re here to help.
01896 66 26 00