Professional Qualifications
Open to everyone, these opportunities provide a faster route to new skills without the need for employment. Many courses can be self-funded or supported through an Advanced Learner Loan.
Current Opportunities
We currently offer a range of fully accredited qualifications tailored specifically to the health and fitness sector. These programmes are designed to help individuals boost their career prospects without the need for existing employment or sponsorship. Whether you’re looking to take your first step into the industry or build on existing knowledge, our courses provide the skills, confidence, and recognised certifications needed to progress independently.
Active IQ Diploma in Personal Training
Level 3
6 Month Programme
Course Summary
The Active IQ Level 3 Diploma in Personal Training is designed for individuals aiming to advance their careers in the fitness industry by becoming certified personal trainers. This comprehensive programme builds upon existing knowledge of gym instruction, delving deeper into exercise science, client communication, and business acumen. Graduates will be equipped to work independently or within fitness facilities, offering personalized training services to a diverse clientele.
Throughout the course, learners will explore advanced topics such as detailed anatomy and physiology, nutrition strategies, and effective client assessment techniques. The curriculum emphasizes the development of tailored exercise programmes, the ability to conduct comprehensive client consultations, and an understanding of the legal and professional responsibilities inherent in personal training. Additionally, the programme provides insights into establishing and managing a personal training business, preparing learners for potential self-employment.
The course is accredited by CIMSPA (the Chartered Institute for the Management of Sport and Physical Activity), which means it meets industry-recognised professional standards and enhances employability within the UK fitness sector. Upon completion of the course, you will be awarded 10 CPD points, allowing you to become a member with CIMPSA.
This course is only available to individuals who have already achieved a Level 2 Certificate in Gym Instructing or an equivalent qualification.
Learner Journey
Over a 6-month programme, learners develop the advanced skills, knowledge, and behaviours needed to work professionally as personal trainers. This journey is supported by a blend of weekly online sessions and quarterly face-to-face workshops, led by a dedicated tutor who provides one-on-one support throughout. Learners are given access to a rich library of online learning and support materials to guide their progress and assist with their off-the-job training.
The programme combines theory and practice, with structured classroom sessions, mentoring, and practical learning experiences. A minimum of 20% of the course is dedicated to off-the-job training, which includes self-directed study, webinars, and applied learning outside the learner’s normal working environment. All off-the-job training must be logged and evidenced, with expectations clearly outlined during the enrolment stage.
Funding
This course can be funded in two ways:
Advanced Learner Loan:
Pay nothing upfront. The government covers the full £811 course cost through a loan, which you only start repaying once you earn over £27,295 a year.
Pay Upfront:
Save 10% by paying in full at the time of enrolment. The discounted price is £729.90+ VAT.
What does “funded by an Advanced Learner Loan” mean?
It means the course is paid for by a government loan, available to learners aged 19 and over. You don’t need to pay anything upfront, Student Finance England covers the cost of your course directly.
You only start repaying the loan once you’re earning over £27,295 a year (or about £2,275 a month before tax). If your income drops below that, repayments pause. Repayments are just 9% of anything you earn over the threshold, and the loan is written off after 30 years, even if you haven’t paid it all back.
Example:
If you’re earning £30,000 a year, you’re £2,705 over the repayment threshold. So, you repay 9% of £2,705, which equals £243.45 per year. That’s just over £20 a month.
Eligibility criteria for the Advanced Learner Loan:
You must be 19 or older on the first day of your course.
You must have lived in the UK for at least 3 years before starting your course and be a UK national or have ‘settled status’ (no restrictions on how long you can stay).
How To Apply
To express your interest in this course, please click the button below and complete the application form. A member of our team will be in touch to discuss your application.
Active IQ Diploma in Gym Instructing & Personal Training
Level 3
6 Month Programme
Course Summary
The Active IQ Level 3 Diploma in Gym Instructing and Personal Training is designed for individuals aiming to become certified personal trainers. This comprehensive programme combines foundational knowledge of gym instructing with advanced personal training techniques, making it ideal for those seeking to establish a career in the fitness industry. Graduates will be well-prepared to work in various settings, including gyms, health clubs, or as independent personal trainers.
Throughout the course, learners will delve into essential topics such as anatomy and physiology, nutrition, and client assessment. They will develop the skills necessary to design and deliver effective exercise programmes, conduct client consultations, and understand the legal and professional aspects of personal training. The programme also emphasizes business acumen, preparing learners to manage a personal training business independently.
The course is accredited by CIMSPA (the Chartered Institute for the Management of Sport and Physical Activity), which means it meets industry-recognised professional standards and enhances employability within the UK fitness sector. Upon completion of the course, you will be awarded 10 CPD points, allowing you to become a member with CIMPSA.
Learner Journey
Over a 6-month programme, learners develop the practical skills, theoretical knowledge, and professional behaviours required to succeed as both a Gym Instructor and Personal Trainer. This journey is supported by a combination of weekly online learning and regular in-person workshops, guided by an experienced tutor who provides continuous support and feedback throughout the course.
Learners gain access to a comprehensive suite of online resources, including videos, digital manuals, and interactive learning materials, which support their independent study and development. The programme is structured around a flexible learning model, making it ideal for those balancing study with other commitments.
In-person sessions focus on applying theoretical knowledge in practical environments, covering key competencies such as client consultation, programme design, and leading safe and effective training sessions. Learners will also explore anatomy, physiology, and nutrition in relation to exercise and personal training.
As the course progresses, learners compile a portfolio of evidence to demonstrate their knowledge and practical application. Before completion, a final assessment is conducted to confirm competence. This includes a combination of observed practical tasks, worksheets, and a portfolio review, ensuring learners are fully prepared to enter the fitness industry with confidence.
Funding
This course can be funded in two ways:
Advanced Learner Loan:
Pay nothing upfront. The government covers the full £2225 course cost through a loan, which you only start repaying once you earn over £27,295 a year.
Pay Upfront:
Save 20% by paying in full at the time of enrolment. The discounted price is £1780+ VAT.
What does “funded by an Advanced Learner Loan” mean?
It means the course is paid for by a government loan, available to learners aged 19 and over. You don’t need to pay anything upfront, Student Finance England covers the cost of your course directly.
You only start repaying the loan once you’re earning over £27,295 a year (or about £2,275 a month before tax). If your income drops below that, repayments pause. Repayments are just 9% of anything you earn over the threshold, and the loan is written off after 30 years, even if you haven’t paid it all back.
Example:
If you’re earning £32,000 a year, you’re £4,705 over the repayment threshold.
So, you repay 9% of £4,705, which equals £423.45 per year. That’s just over £35 a month.
Eligibility criteria for the Advanced Learner Loan:
You must be 19 or older on the first day of your course.
You must have lived in the UK for at least 3 years before starting your course and be a UK national or have ‘settled status’ (no restrictions on how long you can stay).
How To Apply
To express your interest in this course, please click the button below and complete the application form. A member of our team will be in touch to discuss your application.
Transcend Leading Inclusive Physical Activities
Level 2
2 Day Programme
Course Summary
The Transcend Level 2 Award in Leading Inclusive Physical Activities in Modified Multi Sports is designed for individuals aspiring to lead safe and engaging physical activity sessions across diverse groups. This qualification supports roles in schools, community settings, and commercial leisure environments, equipping learners with the skills to promote inclusivity in sports and physical activities.
Throughout the course, participants will develop the knowledge and competencies required to fulfil duties associated with leading inclusive physical activities, drive engagement through adaptable sports sessions, and meet the deployment expectations of various activity leadership roles.
The course is accredited by CIMSPA (the Chartered Institute for the Management of Sport and Physical Activity), which means it meets industry-recognised professional standards and enhances employability within the UK fitness sector. Upon completion of the course, you will be awarded 10 CPD points, allowing you to become a member with CIMPSA.
Learner Journey
Over a short, focused programme totalling 18 hours, learners will develop the essential skills and understanding needed to confidently lead inclusive physical activity sessions. The course is delivered over two full days via Microsoft Teams, blending theoretical study with interactive and practical elements to ensure a well-rounded learning experience.
Guided by an experienced tutor, learners will explore key themes such as legal responsibilities, inclusive leadership strategies (including the Inclusion Spectrum and STEP model), and practical session planning and delivery. All learning is structured around three core units, which cover the duties, expectations, and engagement techniques required to work effectively in school, community, and leisure environments.
Learners are supported throughout with access to digital learning materials and real-time feedback. Assessment is portfolio-based and includes four components: preparation planning (designing an inclusive session), practical delivery (leading a 15-minute session), professional discussion (reflecting on their practice), and peer review (giving feedback on another learner’s delivery). This structure ensures both theoretical knowledge and practical ability are thoroughly assessed.
This qualification is suitable for individuals aged 14 and over. No prior experience is necessary, just a passion for inclusive physical activity and effective communication skills in English. On completion, learners will be equipped to meet deployment expectations and take on inclusive activity leadership roles across a variety of sectors.
Costing
This course must be paid for outright and costs £250 + VAT
How To Apply
To express your interest in this course, please click the button below and complete the application form. A member of our team will be in touch to discuss your application.