As the fitness and physical activity sector adapts to evolving industry demands, Active IQ have this month (August 2025) introduced a comprehensive suite of 11 Level 2 and Level 3 technical qualifications.
Approved by IfATE, Ofqual, and the Department for Education (DfE), these qualifications are set to receive government funding this month as part of the qualification reforms. These qualifications ensure that learners gain high-quality, industry-recognised skills across a range of specialisations.
Overview of the approved Level 2 and Level 3 technical qualifications
Starting in 2025, only qualifications developed under the IfATE process will be eligible for guaranteed funding. In total, this applies to 11 qualifications, including seven atLlevel 2 and four at Level 3. These qualifications cover essential areas for fitness professionals and cater to specific needs within the sector, from adolescent training to antenatal/postnatal fitness.
Here's a breakdown of the newly approved qualifications:
Level 2 qualifications:
- Level 2 Technical Occupational Entry in Fitness Coaching (Certificate)
- Level 2 Technical Specialist in Instructing Circuit Training (Award)
- Level 2 Technical Specialist in Instructing Kettlebell Training (Award)
- Level 2 Technical Specialist in Instructing Physical Activity for Children (Award)
- Level 2 Technical Specialist in Instructing Studio Cycling (Award)
- Level 2 Technical Specialist in Instructing Water-based Exercise (Award)
- Level 2 Technical Specialist in Physical Activity and Exercise for Adolescents (Award)
Level 3 qualifications:
- Level 3 Technical Occupational Entry in Personal Training (Diploma)
- Level 3 Technical Specialist in Adapting Physical Activity for Antenatal and Postnatal Clients (Award)
- Level 3 Technical Specialist in Optimising Training for the Ageing Client (Award)
- Level 3 Technical Specialist in Sports Massage Therapy (Diploma)
The qualifications are structured to provide learners with targeted skills and knowledge that meet both current industry standards and anticipated future needs. The funding from 2025 aligns with government initiatives to ensure training aligns with industry demands.
Importance of the new qualifications
Lisa Skelton, Head of Business Development at Active IQ, emphasises the significance of these qualifications in addressing industry needs:
“These new qualifications mark a pivotal advancement in fitness education, equipping learners with the specialised skills necessary to meet both current and future demands of the sector. By aligning our programmes with employer insights and industry trends, we ensure that our learners are prepared to make a meaningful impact. The government funding and support from 2025 only further validates the importance of these qualifications in fostering a capable and adaptable workforce.”
Frequently asked questions (FAQ) for training providers
To support training providers in delivering these newly approved qualifications, we've compiled a list of frequently asked questions (FAQs) below. These FAQs cover essential information about the funding timeline, approval process, available resources, and delivery requirements, helping you navigate the details of integrating these qualifications into your programme offerings. From understanding UCAS points and digital assessment tools to planning combined level 2 and level 3 pathways, our FAQs are designed to address common queries and ensure you have all the information you need.
For additional support, please visit the designated qualification pages for resources and contact options.
Answer: IfATE approval ensures these qualifications meet rigorous standards and are aligned with the technical skills and knowledge demanded by the industry. It also guarantees that these qualifications will be eligible for government funding from 1 August 2025.
Answer: Yes, all Level 3 qualifications provide UCAS points, which can be calculated using the UCAS calculator.
Answer: Centres can apply for approval now using the contact enquiry form on the individual qualification page.
Answer: Yes, as long as learners meet the entry requirements for each qualification, they can pursue a combination of level 2 and level 3 courses within the same academic year.
Answer: Active IQ will supply comprehensive resources, including learner manuals and digital learning materials, to support the successful delivery of these qualifications. For more information, please contact [email protected]
Answer: Yes, Active IQ offers these qualifications in versions suitable for the commercial market, with reduced Guided Learning Hours (GLH) to fit blended learning models. These will also be available from 1 August 1 2025.
Answer: Yes, training providers can design programmes that include both the new and existing qualifications to provide a robust curriculum that meets the guided learning hour requirements for full-time academic students.
Answer: Yes, Active IQ’s LMS platform includes interactive assessments that reduce the manual marking load for tutors. Automated assessments are included, though some observed and manually marked assessments will still be required.
Getting started with Active IQ’s new qualifications
- Approval process: fill out and submit a contact form via the selected qualification’s page and a member of our team will be in touch.
- Resource preparation: ensure trainers are familiar with the digital assessment tools and LMS platform.
- Promote funded courses: market these qualifications as government-funded opportunities starting in 2025 to attract learners looking for future-proof credentials.
Active IQ’s new technical qualifications for 2025 reflect the fitness sector’s shift toward specialised, high-quality education that prepares learners for the demands of an evolving industry. For training providers, these qualifications offer a significant opportunity to expand their offerings, attract new learners, and stay ahead in a competitive market.
For further information on these new qualifications, resources and support, or to explore other opportunities, please contact our team today.