SERC is delighted to announce that its highly successful Level 3 National Diploma in Sport, Fitness and Personal Training will be available at Bangor and Downpatrick campuses from September, alongside its established delivery at Lisburn Campus.
Caleb Turley, (18, from Crumlin) progressed to the course following his GCSEs at St Patrick’s Academy in Lisburn. He said, “I have been into the gym since I was about 13, and even then I was always trying to get people along, especially anyone who wanted to learn more about getting fit and personal training.”
He added, “I was delighted when I found out about the course at SERC’s Lisburn Campus and thrilled when I secured a place. One of the best parts of the course has been learning through other people – I was surrounded by people who wanted to learn about fitness and wellbeing. The tutors were excellent and the class was small, so it was always easy to ask questions or seek clarification. The facilities at the college were great too, we had a fully equipped, industry standard gym and sports hall."
Caleb continued, “I was working part-time in retail throughout my studies and as part of the course I had a placement with PureGym. I loved it! When a position came up, I applied and am now employed as a Gym Instructor. It is brilliant to have completed a qualification for something I love and then to walk into a job, straight after college. It has been hard work, but I have enjoyed every minute.
“I do want to go on and pick up more qualifications, perhaps in sports massage, and it is good that I will be able to study for them at college part-time, so they fit in around work.”
Speaking about his new role as a Gym Instructor Caleb said, “Walking into a gym can be intimidating for some people. But once I find out what people want to get from it, I love that I have the knowledge and skills to teach them something that is going to get them to where they want to be. I am passionate about breaking down barriers to help make the gym a place for everyone, whether they are there for weight loss, building strength or they simply need guidance and encouragement.”
Caleb concluded, “If you are passionate about fitness and wellbeing then I would highly recommend applying to SERC for the Level 3 Diploma in Sport, Fitness and Personal Training. It has got me to where I want to be.”
The expansion of the programme means that more students across the region will have the opportunity to gain industry-recognised qualifications and practical experience that can lead directly to employment or self-employment within the thriving fitness sector.
SERC’s Phillip McKelvey, Deputy Head of School of Arts and Sport said, “The Level 3 National Diploma in Sport, Fitness and Personal Training is designed for post-16 learners with a passion for sport, fitness and wellbeing. The two-year programme combines hands-on learning with professional skills development, preparing students for a range of careers in the industry.
“The course is equivalent to two A Levels, and offers learners the opportunity to develop their knowledge of fitness, health and personal training through an engaging blend of practical activities, theoretical study, vocational subjects and simulated or real work placement experiences.”
On completion of the programme, students will hold industry-recognised Fitness Instructor and Personal Training qualifications, giving them the skills, confidence and credentials required to enter employment or establish themselves as self-employed personal trainers.
