Sports Coaching with Football Development and Performance (HTQ)

Gain coaching experience and learn the theory behind what it takes to be a professional football coach. We partnered with FAB academy to offer you this two-year foundation degree. You'll gain a mix of academic theory and workplace experience to prepare you with both the practical and theoretical skills you need.

Based at Bisham Abbey, you will be immersed in the day-to-day activities of a national sports centre. Your learning experience will be enhanced by using our state-of-the-art Human Performance, Exercise and Wellbeing Centre, offering you the best combination of work-based learning, coaching theory and an experience of two years at university.

Why Study This Subject?

This elite full-time football programme (Monday to Saturday) provides aspiring players with the opportunity to develop their performance, coaching knowledge and understanding of the game. Based at Bisham Abbey National Sports Centre, you'll train regularly in a high-performance environment and may have opportunities to gain experience within semi-professional football clubs.

The course supports both player and personal development, helping you build resilience, adaptability and professionalism within competitive football environments. You'll also benefit from opportunities to showcase your abilities and gain exposure to the wider football industry.

Delivered by UEFA Pro Licence and A Licence coaches, the programme combines practical football development with academic study, offering valuable insight from experienced professionals. Through the degree, you'll enhance your coaching skills, develop your understanding of football performance and gain the knowledge needed for a career within the sport.

Football plays an important role in supporting communities and promoting participation in physical activity. As a coach, you'll help develop players both on and off the pitch, providing guidance, mentorship and support. This course prepares you to take on those responsibilities with confidence while developing the skills required for a range of careers within football and sports coaching.

Why Study at Buckinghamshire New University?

This course combines the theory of football coaching with practical skills development and industry experience. Delivered in partnership with FAB Academy, you'll learn from lecturers with experience in coaching and elite sport while developing the knowledge and skills needed for a career in the football industry.
The course also provides a pathway to a top-up degree, allowing you to progress to a full BSc (Hons) qualification with an additional year of study.
Based in High Wycombe, you'll have access to a range of university facilities, including the gym, Human Performance Laboratory, Sports Therapy Clinic and competitive university sports teams.

What Facilities Can I Use?

Most teaching takes place at BNU's High Wycombe campus, while training and gym sessions utilise the facilities at Bisham Abbey National Sports Centre. As part of the university community, you'll also have access to a range of sports facilities, activities and fitness opportunities.
Through the Big Deal initiative, you can take part in a variety of sports clubs, fitness classes and recreational activities. The university also offers a large multi-purpose sports hall and opportunities to participate in competitive teams and sports societies, including football, rugby, basketball, athletics, cricket, netball, volleyball and dance.
Students also have opportunities to compete in national competitions and university sport events.

At Bucks New University, you'll benefit from career-focused teaching, hands-on learning and a supportive community that helps you thrive throughout your degree and beyond.

You'll learn from lecturers with industry experience, gain practical skills in professional-standard facilities and receive personalised support through smaller class sizes. Beyond your course, The Big Deal gives every student free access to sports clubs, societies, fitness facilities, social events, trips, volunteering opportunities and career-boosting workshops. It's Bucks way of helping you discover new interests, meet like-minded people, build your CV and make the most of university life – all without paying extra membership fees.

Whether you're preparing for your future career, growing your confidence or looking for an unforgettable student experience, Bucks offers the opportunities and support to help you achieve your goals.