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The units place the emphasis on assessing whole outcomes, or a combination of outcomes, rather than on individual knowledge and skills. This helps reduce the assessment load for both learners and centres. The unit specifications contain guidance on types of assessment and evidence, incorporating a range of assessment methods.

• 2022 Qualification Verification Summary Report (124 KB)

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This guidance is optional. You can use this guidance or deliver and assess as outlined in the group award specification.

Optional assessment guidance (399 KB)

See also the general HNVQ optional assessment guidance: Information and guidance for centres.

Centres who have delivered the existing NPA Exercise and Fitness Leadership SCQF level 6 (G9GC 46) in the last 2 years or have been approved in the last 6 months will be contacted by the Approvals team at Qualifications Scotland in March 2026 and asked to complete a ‘Self Declaration’ form which will confirm the centre is aware of the new course and unit requirements.  When this is completed, the centre will then be approved to offer this revised course.

Centres delivering this qualification must provide learners with access to a range of gym equipment, including:

• cardiovascular equipment
• fixed resistance machines including a cable pulley
• free weight equipment, including barbells, dumbbells, Olympic bars, weight plates, adjustable benches, squat or power rack, and appropriate flooring
• functional exercise equipment including medicine balls, kettlebells, Swiss balls, mats, powerbags and plyo boxes

Note: This is not an exhaustive list.

Learners should have access to a suitable facility or environment to deliver the physical activity sessions, such as a fitness studio, gym, hall or outdoor space. Centres may benefit from setting up partnership or service level agreements with local organisations or facilities. Learners would benefit from undertaking some of the units within the NPA award in a workplace or simulated setting where possible.

Learners should also have access to ICT, a variety of current publications and online resources to encourage and support a level of independent study.

The NPA in Exercise and Fitness Leadership is designed for a wide range of learners, including:

• learners who are currently in school or for school leavers
• adult returners who have an interest in physical activity and health
• Within school environments, this qualification can complement the Physical Education (PE) curriculum and or leadership programmes
• Within colleges, it can be delivered as an optional NPA as part of the NC in Sport and Physical Activity at SCQF level 6 and prepare learners to progress onto the HNC in Physical Activity and Health or the HNC Fitness Health and Exercise

Learners will develop:

1. knowledge of body systems and their application in physical activity and health.
2. knowledge of the psychological responses to physical activity and health.
3. coaching skills relevant to working with an individual or group of individuals during physical activity sessions.
4. skills to deliver and lead physical activity sessions.
5. knowledge to effectively plan, deliver, and review physical activity sessions

Access

Entry to this qualification is at the discretion of the centre. Learners would benefit from having some experience participating in and leading PE, physical activity, sport or exercise and fitness training sessions. Communication skills equivalent to at least SCQF level 5 are also recommended. This NPA award is suitable for learners who have no previous qualifications or experience but have an interest in developing their knowledge and skills in physical activity and health.

Successful completion of this award may enable learners to gain employment and volunteering opportunities in delivering physical activity and health initiatives in local leisure trusts, private health and fitness organisations or sports clubs. This may involve working independently or as part of a team alongside other professionals. Learners may have to join the Protecting Vulnerable Groups (PVG) scheme required by their employer/placement provider, club or organisation.

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