Fitness - VTCT Level 2 Certificate in Instructing Gym-Based Exercise

Applications Open - 20 November 2025 at 8am

Applications Close - 6 February 2026 at 15:00 (Except Beauty L2 which closes on the 22nd May).

General Entry Requirements:

Our level 3 Sixth Form entry requirements are five GCSEs at Grades 9-4 including Maths and English minimum Grade 4. However, please read the course information, which, provides specific details of course content and entry requirements.

For level 2 courses please read the course information.

Subjects: -

Level 3 - Enter your choices in order of preference for Level 3 courses. Students need to select the equivalent of 3 courses (Triple counts as 3), with 2 reserve options if selecting Level 3 courses. Year 12 are expected to study the equivalent of three subjects. Once we close to applicants on the 6 February the options selected will be reviewed and if required we will be in contact.

Level 2 - just add the course required, eg beauty, finance or fitness. However, please look up all entry requirements for individual subjects as some subjects require specific subjects and grades.

Timetable Blocks- Please read carefully: Level 3 Courses Please select 3 subjects and 2 reserve subjects by placing them in a ranked order/ or a Pathway. Once applications close we will review all subjects requested and may be in contact at this time to discuss your chosen subjects further.

Additional optional qualifications such as Arts Award (Gold),Core Maths, Further Maths and the EPQ are not applied for at the Kent Choice stage further information will be provided in the 6th Form induction if you would like to undertake this course in addition to your core qualifications.

How to Apply - Via Kent Choices or through link on our website https://www.hernebayhigh.org/sixth-form/how-to-apply

Further Information: We reserve the right to withdraw courses if insufficient numbers are attracted.

Any queries, please contact 6form@hernebayhigh.org

The VTCT Level 2 Certificate in Instructing Gym-based Exercise is a VRQ aimed at learners aged 16+ who are either in a full-time level 2 education programme, a part time programme at a college or with a private training provider and wish to pursue a career as an employed fitness instructor of gym-based exercise. The qualification is based on the Chartered Institute for the Management of Sport and Physical Activity (CIMSPA) professional standards for instructing gym-based exercise.The skills gained on this course will provide an insight into the fitness industry, enabling learners to progress on to a level 3 qualification or employment.

This is a work-related course that can also lead to progression onto level 3 courses. Students will gain the key knowledge and practical skills required in the fitness industry. The course involves studying 4 units of work over 1 year and all are assessed by coursework. Coursework assessments include written assignments, presentations and practical demonstrations.

The qualification includes all the required elements to work effectively as a gym instructor. Learners must achieve all mandatory units. which include:

Anatomy and physiology for exercise and fitness professionals

Professional practice for exercise and fitness professionals

Exercise, fitness and lifestyle consultation and management

Planning and instructing gym-based exercise programmes

Throughout this qualification, learners will develop their knowledge and understanding of relevant anatomy and physiology. They will also develop the knowledge, understanding and skills to pre-screen clients and check their readiness to exercise, health and safety and induct individuals and small groups to gym equipment. They will also plan and instruct gym-based exercise programmes. In parallel, learners will develop their communication and customer service skills, their awareness of environmental sustainability and their commercial skills, all of which are valued highly by employers. Problem solving, team working skills and research skills will also be developed.

1 Year Course – Normally 5 GCSEs Grades in the range of 9-2 (Including Maths and English at grade 3 or above).

The course may provide a pathway direct to level 3. It will be beneficial to those intending to pursue any health, fitness or sports-related vocation such as recreation management, sports development, coaching or personal training.