Resources for schools
The CIMSPA Careers Guidance Course gives secondary students a tangible link between physical education and real-world careers. It helps pupils understand how their interest in sport and physical activity can develop into a meaningful profession, broadening their aspirations beyond elite performance to include roles in coaching, health, fitness, leisure operations, education, and more.
By embedding these resources into PSHE, PE or careers provision, schools can meet several Gatsby Benchmarks—especially Benchmark 2 (Learning from career and labour market information), Benchmark 4 (Linking curriculum learning to careers), and Benchmark 5 (Encounters with employers and employees). The video case studies and clear progression pathways offer students authentic insights that support informed subject choices, further study, or early career planning.
CIMSPA Careers Guidance Course – Free Educational Resources Empowering the next generation of sport and physical activity professionals
The CIMSPA Careers Guidance Course is a completely free, downloadable resource pack designed to support education professionals across the sport and physical activity sector. Developed by the sector’s only chartered professional body, these ready-to-use resources help learners explore, understand and plan for a career in sport and physical activity—whether they’re just getting started, progressing their journey, or looking to advance further.
Split into three engaging parts, the course provides a structured and inspiring pathway to help learners visualise and prepare for a successful and fulfilling career in the sector:
- Part 1 – CIMSPA’s Role in the Sport and Physical Activity Sector
Learners discover the purpose and influence of CIMSPA as the professional body for the sector. This section explores CIMSPA’s work to shape professional standards, raise the profile of the workforce, and drive quality and consistency across sport and physical activity roles. - Part 2 – Exploring Careers in the Sport and Physical Activity Sector
This part opens learners’ eyes to the vast array of career opportunities available—from entry-level roles to specialist and leadership positions. With real-world video case studies, insights from professionals, and sector data, learners can see what a career in the sector truly looks like. - Part 3 – Shaping Your Future in the Sport and Physical Activity Sector
This final part supports learners in taking practical steps towards their chosen pathway. They’ll explore qualifications, training routes, work experience, and professional development options—all backed by guidance to help them plan for a long, successful and rewarding career.
The course is user-friendly and packed with high-quality content, including sector insight, inspirational case studies, interactive tasks, and supportive guidance. All resources have been mapped to the Gatsby Benchmarks for career education, and come with a dedicated Gatsby Benchmark Alignment and Guidance Document, making it easy for educators to integrate into existing programmes.
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From pool lifeguard to Pilates instructor, we’ve got the information you need to help your students figure out what sport and physical activity career is right for them.
