Most of us have dreamt about becoming a professional sportsperson, and yet despite possibly not being good enough to make it, we try convincing ourselves otherwise. Well all is not lost If you’ve still got that burning desire to have a career in sport- without actually professionally taking part in it. Starting a sports apprenticeship could put you on track for a speedy shoot up the sports and fitness industry ladder…or should I say gym rope.
- What’s it about?
- Who’s it for?
- What do I get out of it?
- What vacancies are there?
- What can I do after the apprenticeship?
What’s it about?
‘Sport’ is about more than just teams and competition – it’s all forms of physical activity that improve physical fitness and mental wellbeing. Sport can even help people form social relationships. Millions of people enjoy sports at community leisure centres, private health clubs, outward bound centres, and after-school clubs; and all of these need keen and motivated staff to make sure things run smoothly and safely, as well as to instruct, inspire, and keep an eye on people.
If you like working with people, then an apprenticeship as a fitness instructor, coach or activity leader could prove rewarding. If football is your passion, you could help manage club facilities or work as an event marshal during matches. And for those who prefer to work quietly behind the scenes, operational services are needed to support every business and organisation in the sector.
Who’s it for?
It goes without saying you need to be physically fit and active, and love all aspects of sport (A GCSE or A-Level in P.E would certainly be of use). You need to be able to motivate and inspire and do so by being a good motivator as well as demonstrating with your own actions.
Understanding the importance of nutrition and how to conduct a warm up and exercise without straining muscles is vital. So Science and Maths skills will definitely come in hand here.
You need to be dedicated to work in sports, as you will be seen as a role-model to many, so working long hours is a standard trait of the job. But don’t worry, you’re not expected to be bursting with muscles by the end of it!
What do I get out of it?
Apprenticeships are on offer throughout the UK. There are different levels of the apprenticeship available, but they all lead to a National Vocational Qualification (NVQs), Key Skill qualifications and a range of Technical Certificates which give the underpinning knowledge necessary to achieve the NVQ and allow for broader learning and development opportunities.
After completion of a sports apprenticeship, there are a number of potential job roles available to delve into, including activity leadership, coaching, teaching and instructing, instructing exercise and fitness, leisure management, operational services and spectator safety.
With London 2012 on the horizon, investment is being poured into promoting sports and fitness and improving facilities from community to professional level. In fact, there’s never been a better time to start a career in the industry!
What vacancies are there?
Check out our sports apprenticeship vacancies section to find the right opportunity for you!
What can I do after the apprenticeship?
Lifetime Health and Fitness offer sports apprenticeships & fitness apprenticeships. To find out more about the apprenticeships they offer that will lead to the following roles, click on the relevant link below.
To give you a greater understanding of the type of career you can expect after receiving your Lifetime qualification, here are some leisure industry job profiles:
Lifeguard – A lifeguard provides an amazing public service in making swimmers feel safe and confident by just being at the poolside. It’s a start to a career in leisure and you could actually save a life! The Activity Leader Apprenticeship will qualify you as a Lifeguard and much more in just 3 weeks.
Activity Leader – An activity leader coordinates a programme of events in a leisure centre so a friendly and approachable manner is important. Through active participation they lead children and adult activities in the sports hall and assist in the smooth running of the centre. This role is often shared with lifeguarding duties so the Activity Leader Apprenticeship is ideal.
Sports Coach Assistant – Sports coach assistants help people participating in sports to work towards achieving their full potential. You will need to motivate and inspire the sports people you are working with so an optimistic outlook is essential. The responsibilities of this role are often shared with a lifeguard role so the Activity Leader Apprenticeship is the ideal starting point.
Leisure Attendant – An outgoing personality is important for the varied role of a leisure attendant (sometimes known as a recreation assistant). No two days are the same – duties include sports hall set up, lifeguarding and reception cover. One thing for sure is that you’ll work with a team of young like-minded people so your day will never be dull.
Fitness Instructor – Fitness instructors will meet lots of people from a variety of backgrounds all with different motivations and fitness goals. Being switched on will really help in this varied and dynamic environment. Customers may vary greatly in age and experience, so a friendly and approachable manner is important.
