Sport Exercise & Coaching
A dynamic sports course giving you an insight into the world of exercise and coaching.
| Award Name | Level 5 Certificate (Level 5 NFQ) |
|---|---|
| NFQ Classification | Major |
| Awarding Body | QQI |
| NFQ Level | Level 5 NFQ |
| Award Name | Coaching Certificate |
| NFQ Classification | |
| Awarding Body | Football Association of Ireland |
| NFQ Level |
| Award Name | NFQ Classification | Awarding Body | NFQ Level |
|---|---|---|---|
| Level 5 Certificate (Level 5 NFQ) | Major | QQI | Level 5 NFQ |
| Coaching Certificate | Football Association of Ireland |
Duration
38 weeks.
Entry Requirements
Minimum:
- Applicants must be 16+ years of age on entry to the course.
- Leaving Cert, LCVP, LCA or QQI Level 4 Major Award.
- Mature applicant route available for applicants aged 23+.
- Competent written and spoken English (CEFR B2 or Higher).
- Non-EU/EEA applicants must have permission to work in Ireland.
Additional:
Must have a motivation to learn, an interest in the subject and the ability to acquire the knowledge, skills and competencies set out in the course.
Careers / Further progression
What are the progression opportunities?
If you complete a QQI major award with Kerry College, you may use your results to progress to third level (University, Technological University or Institute of Technology). You may apply under the QQI Higher Education Links Scheme (HELS). A limited number of places are available each year. Some examples include:
B.Ed. Sports Studies and Physical Education at University College Cork (UCC)
B. A. (Ord) Sport Coaching and Business Management (Rugby) OR (GAA) at South East Technological University (SETU)
B.Sc. Health, Sport and Exercise Sciences at Munster Technological University (MTU)
B.Sc. Coaching and Sports Performance at Munster Technological University (MTU)
Diploma in Personal Training and Strength & Conditioning REPS Ireland (NFQ Level 5)
You should check individual university websites for specific entry criteria for courses.
There is a separate section on the CAO application for applying using your QQI results from Kerry College in the same way you use your Leaving Certificate results.
Further information
Start Date: 07/09/2026.
Apply online via the Kerry College Website - link above.
Your application will be processed using FETCHCOURSES - the National FET Course Application System.
If you haven't signed up for a FETCH account, you'll need to do this first. It's free and a one-time setup.
Why should I apply?
This course will allow you to see what the leisure industry is like while also gaining additional certification along the way in specific coaching module. It has a great emphasis of practical modules where you will learn by doing.
You will gain:
• QQI Level 5 Award in Sports, Recreation and Exercise
• Basketball Ireland Coaching Qualification
• FAI Coaching Qualification
You will also have the opportunity to get further qualifications in Basic First Aid, Manual Handling and Pool Lifeguarding.
What will I study?
Basketball Coaching (5N4888)
Communications (5N0690)
Exercise and Fitness (5N2668)
GAA Coaching (5N5085)
Leisure Facility Administration (5N4666)
Nutrition (5N2006)
Soccer Coaching (5N4887)
Sports and Recreation Studies (5N2667)
Work Experience (5N1356)
5M5146 - Sport, Recreation and Exercise.
Clash Road,
Tralee, Co. Kerry
V92 Y991
Tel: (066) 7121 741
e: clashroad@kerrycollege.ie
Mon-Fri 8:30am-5:00pm