Active IQ Level 3 Technical Occupational Entry in Personal Training (Diploma)

Introduction

This qualification has been approved by IfATE, Ofqual and DfE to be recognised as a Technical Occupational Entry Qualification. The qualification aligns to KSBs in the existing occupational standard(s) for personal training and enables entry to the aligned occupation(s) (including providing occupational entry competence with the requirement for further learning/training in work to reach full occupational competence).

This qualification is available for first delivery from 1st August 2025.

This occupational entry qualification aims to develop a learner’s further knowledge and skills in gym instruction, to pursue a career in personal training. The role of a personal trainer is to coach clients (on a one-to-one or small group basis) towards their health and fitness goals. Personal training plays an important role in improving the health of the nation, creating opportunities to get more people, more active, more often.

This qualification has been designed in partnership with employers and covers the knowledge and skills identified in the industry as essential for the personal trainer role, covering the design of exercise programmes and instruction, nutritional advice and overall lifestyle management. The qualification also provides the learner with a comprehensive understanding of business, finances, sales and marketing to enable personal trainer to build and retain a stable client base.

Entry requirements

• A suitable Level 2 qualification in Gym Instructing or Fitness Instructing.
• The course requires physical exertion and individual participation is essential, therefore a degree of physical fitness is necessary.
• There is an element of communication (discussing, presenting, reading and writing) involved and learners should have basic skills in communication pitched at level 2.

Qualification structure

Learners must complete the six mandatory units.

Assessment

• Knowledge assessment.
• Assignment.
• Case study.
• Observation and questioning.

Fees breakdown

£150 Registration / Certification, eLearning & eManual fee

Career progression

The qualification provides progression onto:

• Active IQ Level 3 Technical Specialist in Sports Massage Therapy (Diploma).
• Active IQ Level 3 Technical Specialist in Adapting Physical Activity for Antenatal and Postnatal Clients (Award).
• Active IQ Level 3 Technical Specialist in Optimising Training for the Ageing Client (Award).
  Apprenticeship in Personal Training.