Want to work in active leisure? This qualification could help

Active IQ, the UK’s leading Ofqual-recognised Awarding Organisation for the Active Leisure, Learning and Wellbeing Sector, has developed a new Level 1 Certificate in Sport & Physical Activity in partnership with Focus Fitness, one of the fastest growing Gym Instructor training and PT course providers in the UK.

 The new qualification is aimed specifically at people considering a career within the active leisure sector. In addition, it will appeal to those wishing to improve their knowledge of sport and physical activity or seeking to adopt a healthier lifestyle. It has also been designed to support learners who are undergoing a traineeship programme to build on the knowledge and skills required to support their progression to an apprenticeship.

ESFA funded training providers can access additional funding of £1,417 per learner when incorporating this qualification into their traineeship programme offer.

The new qualification aims to provide learners with an understanding of the active leisure sector, explore the links between activity and better health and demonstrate the opportunities within daily life to become more active. Learners are given the opportunity to experience working in the active leisure sector and developing their employability skills, which will aid their chances of gaining and sustaining employment in the short, medium and long term. Learners are also provided with the knowledge and skills to be able to assist with the planning, preparation and delivery of safe and effective sport and physical activity sessions.

Focus Fitness is the first training provider to offer this new qualification to young learners looking to break into the industry.

“The Level 1 Certificate provides fantastic progression opportunities for students wanting to go on to complete a Level 2 Gym Instructor or Level 3 Personal Training course, but also gives students a recognised qualification should they decide not to progress further.” says Gavin Heeroo, founder of Focus Fitness.

“We worked closely with Active IQ to develop something of genuine value and interest to our students. The content of the Certificate is excellent and Active IQ has also been really supportive in creating superb guidance materials for our learners,” he says.

“This an exciting new qualification for our industry that will give structure to the traineeship model, enable learners to gain real experience within our industry at an entry level and be rewarded with a valuable qualification as they begin their journey,” says Jenny Patrickson, Managing Director for Active IQ.