A level 4 Certificate in Exercise and Sport Performance will be offered by Whanganui UCOL next year.  The programme has a strong practical focus and is linked to the knowledge and skills required to succeed in employment within the sport and fitness industries.  �This level 4 Certificate matches what we have been told is needed and will be supported by the Wanganui community� said Suzanne Frecklington, Principal of Whanganui UCOL.

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Whanganui UCOL, Sport and Recreation Wanganui and the District Council have been working together throughout the year to find a sport education solution that meets the needs of local sports industry, school leavers and others.  �The certificate is a very good match with the results of our research and consultation.  Being able to study this sport qualification in Wanganui was important and together we have come up with a great solution� said Frecklington.

Students will be linked from the new Whanganui UCOL campus with their UCOL counterparts in Palmerston North and will be taught with a focus on the hands-on practical skills using a variety of teaching methods, such as practicals, labs, tutorials, online support, and placements. The focus is on both maximising student learning and its application to the sport and fitness industries. An important part of this course is the industry placements, which provide students with the opportunity to apply what they learn within the work-based setting. Students will join with local Wanganui sports organisations, athletes, fitness centres and schools for the practical aspects of the programme.  �This was an especially important part of the solution from the community perspective� said Frecklington.

Successful completion of the Certificate leads to some exciting career opportunities such as gym instructors, athletic trainers, coaches, school sport coordinators, sports administrators and recreation coordinators, or it can lead to further tertiary study.