| Getting your Trinity Audio player ready... |
BISP is proud to have played a key role in the development of the new 2026 Pearson BTEC International Level 3 in Sport specification.
Our BTEC Sport lead, Mr Chris Holmes, was selected by Pearson Edexcel to join an External Stakeholder Advisory Group, working alongside universities, professional organisations, and international schools. Through this collaboration, Mr Holmes contributed directly to shaping a modern, future-focused qualification designed to meet the evolving demands of the global sport industry.
A Collaborative, Industry-Led Qualification
The redevelopment of the BTEC International Level 3 in Sport has been driven by extensive collaboration with:
- Universities and higher education providers
- Professional sporting bodies
- Industry experts and employers
- International schools and educators
Notably, organisations involved in the consultation process include:
- The Premier League
- The Football Association
- Middlesex University
- Anglia Ruskin University
- The Open University
- PGMOL (Professional Game Match Officials Limited)
This collaborative approach ensures the qualification provides a strong pathway to both higher education and employment, equipping students with the knowledge and skills required in a rapidly evolving sport sector.
What’s New in the 2026 Specification?
The updated specification introduces several key enhancements:
1. Transferable Skills for the Future
A strong emphasis on developing essential, transferable skills such as communication, critical thinking, leadership, and problem-solving—preparing students for university and careers beyond sport.
2. Sustainability and Digital Integration
Content now reflects the growing importance of sustainability and digital innovation within the sports industry, embedding these themes naturally across units.
3. Updated, Future-Focused Content
All units have been refreshed to ensure relevance to modern sport, including areas such as technology, sports tourism, and ethical issues.
4. Improved Assessment Approach
A more consistent and accessible assessment model, including:
- Written reports
- Presentations
- Practical demonstrations
- Research projects
- Reflective practice
This approach ensures students develop both academic understanding and practical application.
Course Structure: Extended Diploma (18 Units)
At BISP, students studying the Extended Diploma will complete 18 units over two years, including:
- Health, Wellbeing and Sport
- Fitness Testing
- Sports Injuries Management
- Sports Psychology
- Sports Coaching and Leadership
- Sports Research Project
- Practical Sports Performance
- Nutrition for Physical Performance
- Sports Tourism
- Expedition Skills
- Business in Sport
- Ethical Issues and Performance Aids in Sport
- Influence of Technology in Sport
- Organising Events in Sport and Physical Activities
- Careers in Sport
- Sports Research Methods
- Rules, Regulations and Officiating in Sport
- Sports Anatomy and Physiology
This diverse curriculum ensures students gain a broad and applied understanding of the sport industry.
Enhancing Student Pathways Through Additional Qualifications
A key strength of the BISP programme is the integration of internationally recognised qualifications alongside the BTEC course, enhancing students’ university applications and employability:
- Sports Injuries Management
→ Students gain a recognised First Aid and CPR qualification - Sports Coaching and Leadership
→ Completion of a Level 3 Sports Leadership qualification (worth additional UCAS points) - Expedition Skills
→ Participation in the Duke of Edinburgh’s International Award (Gold)
These opportunities provide students with real-world experience, leadership development, and globally recognised credentials.
Preparing Students for Success
The new BTEC Sport specification has been designed to reflect the realities of the modern sports industry. It encourages students to:
- Apply learning to real-world scenarios
- Develop independent research and analytical skills
- Build confidence through practical and leadership experiences
- Prepare effectively for university and career pathways
Looking Ahead
BISP is proud to have contributed to the development of this innovative qualification and to be at the forefront of its delivery.
We are excited to launch the new specification with our Year 12 students in August 2026, continuing our commitment to delivering a world-class, future-ready sport education.
The new specification can be viewed on our school website HERE.