Level: Level 3
Age Group: 16+
Prerequisites: None

Guided Learning Hours:

• Understanding the 10 Key Factors in L3 Long-Term Athlete Development (LTAD)
  Level 3 · 26 GLH · 8 CPD Points

• Understanding the 7 Stages of Long-Term Athlete Development
  Level 3 · 20 GLH · 8 CPD Points

The CPD in Understanding Long‑Term Athlete Development (LTAD) explores the essential principles and practical strategies that underpin successful athlete progression across the lifespan. This advanced-level course offers a dual-unit framework, combining the strategic “10 Key Factors” of athlete development with a detailed breakdown of the 7 LTAD stages.

Designed for sport and fitness professionals, coaches, physical education instructors, and wellness advocates, the course equips learners with the knowledge to build inclusive, evidence-informed, and sustainable development programmes that support long-term performance, participation, and well-being.

Throughout the course, learners will be equipped to critically analyse food systems, understand how production and processing impact nutrient density and health, and help clients navigate food choices that support optimal wellness. By the end of the programme, participants will be able to apply farm‑to‑fork principles in practical nutrition coaching scenarios and lead consumers toward more informed and sustainable food selection.

By the end of this CPD, participants will be able to:

• Define physical literacy and explain its relationship to athlete engagement and development.
• Evaluate the 10 foundational principles that guide long-term athlete success.
• Apply age- and stage-appropriate practices using LTAD strategies.
• Distinguish between early and late specialisation and understand their impact on athlete health.
• Describe the role of periodisation, recovery, and tapering in athletic progression.
• Understand how developmental milestones influence physical and psychological growth.
• Identify the 7 stages of LTAD and describe key outcomes at each.
• Integrate LTAD concepts into training, coaching, and athlete support plans.
• Promote participation through physical literacy and inclusive programming.
• Recognise long-term engagement benefits such as social inclusion, health, and personal development.
• Create holistic athlete pathways that align with competition and community-based sport.
• Assess and monitor athletes’ progression using LTAD-informed approaches.

Tutor-Led (Extended):
Participants complete three tutor-assessed written tasks, one of which may include a presentation. These apply course principles to real-world coaching, planning, or athlete development scenarios.

Estimated Assessment Time: Approximately 15 hours

This CPD in Understanding Long-Term Athlete Development (LTAD) provides a comprehensive framework to support athletes of all ages and levels. From fostering physical literacy in young children to helping elite performers reach their potential, this course builds your capacity to design, implement, and evaluate long-term development strategies grounded in research and best practice.

It is ideal for professionals committed to promoting athlete well-being, performance longevity, and lifelong physical activity through informed, inclusive programming.

The course specification outlined below include the learning outcomes, assessment requirements, and all associated assessment criteria.