Overview

Are you passionate about helping others get active? This Level 2 apprenticeship is perfect for individuals who want to inspire their community through sport and physical activity. Over 13–18 months, you'll gain real work experience, develop coaching and leadership skills, and make a lasting difference in people's lives—whether that's in a school, sports club, leisure centre, or community organisation.

Who is this apprenticeship for?

This apprenticeship is ideal if you:

• Are aged 16+ and want to start or grow your career in sport or physical activity
• Enjoy working with people of all ages and backgrounds
• Want to gain hands-on coaching experience while earning and learning
• Are enthusiastic, positive, and ready to support healthier lifestyles in your community

Whether you're just leaving school or looking to start a new path, this course gives you the skills and experience to make an impact.

What will you learn?

You’ll gain the knowledge, skills and behaviours to become a confident and capable community coach. Topics include:

Knowledge

• The benefits of physical activity for health and wellbeing
• Behaviour change techniques to encourage participation
• How to plan inclusive and safe sessions for all ages
• Understanding safeguarding, equality, and health & safety
• Ways to promote activities through digital and community engagement

Skills

• Delivering fun, engaging, and safe activity sessions
• Working in partnership with schools, clubs, and local services
• Adapting sessions to different audiences and abilities
• Supporting individuals to develop active habits
• Using feedback and data to improve delivery

Behaviours

• Being approachable, friendly, and supportive
• Demonstrating honesty, integrity, and professionalism
• Taking initiative and responsibility
• Working well in a team and being open to learning
• Staying motivated and enthusiastic about helping others

Delivery

The apprenticeship is delivered through a blended model of:

• Online learning modules
• Tutor-led virtual sessions
• Practical coaching experience in the workplace
• At least 20% off-the-job training
• Optional functional skills in English and Maths if required

You’ll be supported throughout by experienced tutors and workplace mentors.

Duration

The programme typically lasts 13 to 18 months.

What qualification will I gain?

You’ll complete the Community Activator Coach Level 2 apprenticeship standard, which is a nationally recognised qualification. You’ll also be eligible for CIMSPA affiliate membership, giving you access to a network of sport and physical activity professionals.

End-Point Assessment (EPA)

At the end of your apprenticeship, you’ll complete:

• A practical coaching observation
• A professional discussion to showcase your knowledge, skills, and behaviours

This is your opportunity to demonstrate how you’ve grown and what you can offer in a real-world coaching role.

Career Progression

Once qualified, you can:

• Work in schools, youth clubs, leisure centres, or community programmes
• Move into more advanced coaching or leadership roles
• Progress to a Level 3 apprenticeship (e.g. Community Sport and Health Officer)
• Continue training and development through CPD opportunities