• Current
• Finishing

The units place the emphasis on assessing the whole outcome or a combination of outcomes rather than on individual knowledge and skills. This will help reduce the assessment load for both learners and centres. The unit specifications contain guidance on types of assessment and evidence that can be used which incorporate optionality of oral/written evidence, including professional discussion, performance observation and a portfolio of evidence. See the assessment and evidence requirements for each unit.

• 2022 Qualification Verification Summary Report (164 KB)

Thinking of working with us?

• Our approval process
• Become an approved centre

Existing customer?

• Add this qualification to your portfolio
• Support and quality assurance

Centres who have delivered the existing NPA Sports Development SCQF level 6 (G9GF 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 August 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.

• Physical activity for health: framework - gov.scot
• Sport For Life - sportscotland the national agency for sport in Scotland
• Scottish Disability Sport
• Scottish Disability Sport Coaching and Education
• LEAP | LEAP Sports Scotland

The NPA in Sports Development is designed for a wide range of learners, including:

• learners who are at school or who have just left school
• adults returning to education who have an interest in sport development and physical activity
• individuals who are currently in employment and wish to obtain a formal sports development qualification
• those who are looking to access Higher National or Degree sports programmes

These qualifications enable learners to demonstrate both underpinning knowledge and performance evidence of competence in a sports development vocational area.

This qualification provides a comprehensive understanding of how sport and physical activity development can address community needs and how to effectively undertake specific roles within sports development projects. It is designed to broaden your knowledge of how sport provision is structured, delivered, and evaluated within different communities.

The award would be of benefit to you if you have a general interest in sport, physical activity, or community work.

Access

Learners would benefit from an interest in sport and may be keen to embark on a career in sports development. It is recommended that learners undertaking this qualification possess communications skills to a level equivalent to at least SCQF level 5 and have attained one of the following, or equivalent:

• Sports Development: An Introduction at SCQF level 5
• NPA Sports Coaching SCQF level 5
• NC Sport and Physical Activity SCQF level 5
• National 5 Physical Education
• Any sporting activities or sports coaching units at SCQF level 5
• Participate regularly in sport and physical activity, experience participating in and leading in physical education, physical activity, sport, and/or volunteering to support the development of sport or physical activity sessions.

This qualification is suitable for those who have no previous qualifications or experience or learners who wish to develop their knowledge and skills in the field of sport and physical activity development.

Learners could progress to NC in Sport and Physical Activity SCQF level 6 or HNC Physical Activity and Health SCQF level 7 or HNC Sports Coaching and Development SCQF level 7. Entry will be at the centre’s discretion and so learners may need to complete additional qualifications. The NPA in isolation is not designed to lead directly to employment, but the skills gained are applicable to roles of sports development officers, or within fitness and community work.

• Current
• Finishing