The Government-funded MPCT Sports Academy, based at Cardiff Central Youth Club on Ocean Way, will be offering a Level 3 BTEC in Sport (Development Coaching and Fitness) from May onwards. This qualification that is the equivalent to 3 A-Levels not only supports progression into higher education, but is also highly regarded by industry employers.

To offer this new BTEC course, MPCT will work closely alongside Cardiff and Vale College, the biggest further education provider in Wales, who will monitor and support the delivery of this key qualification. Travel support will also be provided to those who live further outside of the city.

The course at MPCT Sports Academy promises to give local 16-23 year olds the chance to move forward towards rewarding careers in the sports and active leisure industry.

The new course is overseen by Ryan James, Sports and Recreation Manager at MPCT, who heads up a team of trained sports and fitness experts in Cardiff. A semi-professional rugby player for Newport RFC, Ryan has been supporting young people to move into the sports industry for over a decade. He comments:

“Sports and fitness is an extremely popular market and I’m so glad that we can now offer this new BTEC qualification, which will support and enable young people from South Wales to follow a career path that they are passionate about.

“We have previously taught up to a Level 2 qualification, but this further offering means that learners can now progress on to university, with the course counting as UCAS points. This is a really big opportunity for ambitious young people in Wales.”

The 19-hour-a-week course will follow a holistic and ‘active learning’ curriculum, meaning learners will partake in a balanced mix of classroom learning and outdoor exercise. As part of the programme, learners will also have the chance to take part in industry work placements to increase their employability.

Huw Lewis MBE is the Founder and Managing Director of MPCT. He comments:

“Our main aim at MPCT is to help young people to achieve their individual goals. Learners leave our courses with increased self-confidence, improved understanding of the importance of a healthy lifestyle, enhanced academic abilities and a broader understanding of the opportunities available to them.”

The new course follows MPCT being named as ‘Training provider of the year’ by the Times Education Supplement – one of the UK’s most prestigious awards for further education. To find out more about the MPCT Sports Academy or to apply, please visit www.sports.mpct.co.uk or call 08442 438438.