CIMSPA Community Coaching with Nottingham Forest Community Trust - (Advanced) - Level 3
Overview
Kick-start your career in sports coaching with this hands-on, industry-focused course designed to prepare you for employment in primary school and community coaching roles.
This CIMSPA-accredited course offers a unique blend of academic study and practical experience, ensuring you leave the course work-ready. You’ll gain real-world coaching experience in both school and community settings in Nottingham City and across Nottinghamshire, developing the skills to deliver inclusive, high-quality sessions for diverse groups.
You’ll study at West Notts College and The Forest Sports Zone based in Nottingham, benefiting from expert teaching and top-tier facilities. As the exclusive partner for this course, we can provide direct access to industry opportunities - including the chance to support matchday activities in the Nottingham Forest Fan Zone on match days.
Throughout the course, your coaching skills will be assessed in real environments to ensure professional growth. You’ll learn to design and lead engaging multi-skills sessions that encourage participation and develop sporting ability, setting you up for success in a dynamic and rewarding career.
Upon completion, you’ll have industry-recognised qualifications and the practical experience needed to secure employment or further training in community sports coaching.
Key highlights:
- Gain hands-on coaching experience in schools and the community
- Earn CIMSPA-accredited qualifications to fast-track your career
- Learn from industry experts at West Notts College and Forest Sport Zone
- Exclusive opportunity to support Nottingham Forest fan zone events
- Develop skills to lead engaging, inclusive coaching sessions
Take your first step towards a rewarding career in sports coaching - apply today!
About Nottingham Forest Community Trust
As the charitable arm of Nottingham Forest FC, the trust works alongside private, public, and third-sector partners to make a lasting impact beyond football. For over 30 years, Nottingham Forest have been at the heart of community engagement, and since 2010, Nottingham Forest Community Trust has strengthened this mission, delivering meaningful support across Nottingham City and Nottinghamshire. Watch the video below to learn more about their work and how they continue to support those who need them most.
Start dates and fees
As part of industry standards, you will need to purchase a uniform suitable for all weather conditions throughout the year. This will ensure you represent both West Notts College and Nottingham Forest professionally while coaching in schools and the community. For more details, please get in touch.
Start Date | Code | Annual Fee (Age) | Actions |
16-18 | over 19 |
Sep 2025 | 1635A1523 | FREE | FREE* to £500.00 | Apply |
* If you are aged 19-23 and studying your first Level 3 course then that course may be free. Please contact us for more details. If you are aged 19 or over and either studying a second Level 3 course or qualifying Level 4, 5 or 6 course you may be able to apply for an Advanced Learner Loan to cover the costs.
What will I study?
- Sports leaders – Level 3
- Coaching in the community and schools – Level 3
- Additional National Governing Body Qualifications
- Developing and assisting junior coaches
- A wide range of enrichment activities related to coaching
- Working with groups in the community
- Disability coaching
- First aid
- Mental health first aid
- Safeguarding
- Work placement is a mandatory part of this course. To gain the most experience in coaching, we highly recommend that you look for opportunities in grass roots coaching, primary school sport and community provisions.
Entry requirements
- This course is only available to 16-18 year olds.
- Four GCSEs at grade 4-9 including English Language or Maths
- A Level 2 coaching qualification is also desirable.
If you are not studying a traditional GCSE programme, we accept alternative qualifications like Functional Skills and vocational courses. If you are not planning on sitting GCSE exams, we can also support you with completing an English Language and Maths assessment. Please contact our admissions team for further details:
Study programmes - essential skills for employment
If you’re aged 16-18 (or 19-25 with an EHC Plan), we want to make sure you have the best possible chances of landing an awesome job once you finish college.
Therefore, if you do not have GCSE grade 4-9 in either English Language or Maths, you will study one or both of these courses alongside your full-time study programme. If you do have GCSE grade 4-9 in English Language and Maths then you will not be required to undertake these subjects. By doing so, you'll be building a stronger set of skills that will significantly boost your employability in the future.
Think of it as a chance to supercharge your knowledge and abilities. You'll be equipped with the tools necessary to tackle the world beyond college with confidence. Plus, we'll be right here to support you every step of the way.
How long is the course?
One year.
How will I be assessed?
- Practical and task-based work
- Assessor observations whilst delivery coaching in the community or in schools
- Written portfolio work
- Professional discussions
Career opportunities
There isn't currently career information listed for this course.