Physical Activity and Health HNC - FT (BASE Mountain Bike)

Start

24 Aug 2026

End

11 Jun 2027

Ride. Learn. Train. Perform.

Ready to take your mountain biking skills and your future to the next level?
Our full time courses combine cutting edge health, fitness, sports science, and coaching with elite mountain biking training, giving you the ultimate platform to succeed both on the trails and in your career.
At Borders College, you'll gain a dynamic blend of practical and theory based skills in sports performance, health, fitness, and coaching. This knowledge will prepare you for further study or a career in the thriving sport and fitness industry. At the same time, you'll develop the strength, conditioning, and technical ability to enhance your performance and dominate the trails.
This course is designed for individuals passionate about promoting wellbeing and active lifestyles, this course combines practical skills with theoretical knowledge to help you support others in achieving their health and fitness goals. You'll explore exercise science, nutrition, and health promotion while learning to design and deliver tailored physical activity programs.
Jointly certificated with SportScotland and CIMSPA, this course provides a strong foundation for a rewarding career in the growing health and wellbeing sector.



Full time students in Scotland may have their tuition fees covered, provided they meet residency requirements.
Additional Costs

  • Annual BASE Mountain Bike Fee 2580.00 GBP inc VAT. Seperate Application needed Direct to Dirt School - Please Link Below
  • Technical Trail Leader & 16 hour First Aid 195.00 GBP inc VAT
  • Additional Insurance for College Coaching Placements 54.00 GBP inc VAT

International students should consult our Student Finance Department by emailing finance@borderscollege.ac.uk

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Delivery

Full-time 36 week course, 3 days per week in College, 2 days on Trails with Dirt School
Work placement (Approximately 100 hours per year).

The HNC comprises of lectures, group work, practical sessions, on-line resource self study and is delivered by vastly experienced professionals. You will be applying your learning within local schools, clubs and health and fitness facilities.

Location

Scottish Borders Campus, Galashiels and Glentress/innerleithen

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Entry requirements

To be considered for this course, you should have two Highers, such as English, PE, or a Science, at grade C or above or successful progression from a relevant full-time sport course. We also welcome applications from those with alternative qualifications and/or relevant industry experience such as:

  • NPAs at Higher levels in appropriate subject areas (Sport and Recreation/Sports Development/Achieving Excellence in Sport)
  • BTEC Level 3 Diploma or Subsidiary Diploma in Sport
  • S/NVQs at level 3
  • SGAs at Higher level in an appropriate subject area (Sport/Fitness).
  • A minimum of 2 A levels at grades A-D in relevant subjects.


All applicants must have a proven interest in their sport and sports coaching. Selection may be subject to a satisfactory interview session. Interviews will include a 1-2-1 discussion and a group practical session meaning interviewees will need to bring their bike and appropriate kit.

PVG Scheme Membership is mandatory for placement. This will be funded by the candidate.

Due to the high volume of applications, meeting the minimum requirements does not guarantee an interview. A well-crafted personal statement will support your application.

On successful entry to the course, the Borders College Sports Kit Bundle must be purchased. Orders will be taken during interview or during information days.

Career Prospects

  • Fitness Instructor
  • Sports Development Officerr
  • Community Health Worker
  • Exercise Referral Specialist
  • Nutritionist

Course Content

  • Exercise Practioner
  • Training Principles for Exercise
  • Anatomy and Physiology for Exercise and Human Movement
  • Health Promotion, Behaviour Change and Nutrition
  • Preparing to Work in the Physical Activity and Health Industry
  • Organising and Delivering a Physical Activity or Health Event
  • Psychology of Physical Activity
  • Research Skills

Method of Assessements:
practical performance, written assignments, presentations, portfolio, exams, placement, fitness instruction delivery.

Case Study




Find out more by following this link.

Questions?

Get in touch for further information, we’re here to help.

01896 66 26 00