Advance Your Career in Fitness, Coaching or Sport

Train in elite-level facilities with expert tutors and real progression routes. Whether you’re starting out with Gym Instructor or Strength & Conditioning, or aiming higher with our Personal Trainer and Apprenticeship options, Competence Development Academy is where passion becomes purpose.

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What Makes Us Different

Why Competence Development Academy?

We’re more than a course provider. At CDA you’ll find expert tutors, outstanding facilities, flexible learning options and a clear path to employment or progression - all delivered in an elite performance environment that sets you up to succeed.

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Career-Focused Courses

Whether it’s Fitness, Functional Skills or Apprenticeships, our courses bring you closer to your ideal role in the sport and physical activity sector.

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Elite Training Environment

Train in professional-standard facilities used by Wigan Warriors; a setting that motivates, inspires and mirrors the demands of real industry roles.

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Flexible for Adult Life

Study part-time with flexible timetables designed to fit around work, family or other commitments; no matter your background or situation.

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Tutors with Unrivalled Experience

Learn from industry professionals who’ve excelled in the roles they teach; bringing insight, relevance and support to every session.

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Funded Places Available

Most learners aged 19+ in Greater Manchester qualify for free training; no loans, no debt, just a real path forward.

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Progression You Can See

From your first course to your next step, we support you with clear, achievable progression; whether that’s further study, employment or training.

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Progress Starts Here

Explore Our Courses

Whether you’re just starting out or ready to specialise, our courses give you the skills, support and qualifications to take the next step in sport, education or employment.

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Fitness Courses

Whether you’re new to fitness or looking to go pro, our gym and coaching qualifications give you the skills and support to succeed in the industry.

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Functional Skills

If you’re looking to improve essential skills, our friendly courses in Maths, English and Digital Skills can help you take the next step.

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Apprenticeships

Our Apprenticeships combine employment with recognised qualifications in sport or education, helping you build a career with purpose and progression.

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Culture of Excellence

Backed By the Best

Our exclusive partnership with Wigan Warriors gives learners access to one of the UK’s leading elite performance environments. Based at Robin Park, our fitness courses are delivered in world-class facilities that inspire focus, discipline and progress. Whether or not you follow the team, being part of this setting means training in a culture built on excellence - and holding yourself to the same high standards.

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Skills, Support, and a Standard to Live Up To

At Competence Development Academy, you’re not just here to complete a course; you’re here to raise your standards, discover what you’re capable of and move forward with purpose. Whether it’s confidence, clarity, or a career shift you’re looking for, we’ll help you get there.

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Don’t just take our word for it

Hear from some of our amazing graduates!

“I’d wanted to work in fitness for years but didn’t know how to start. The tutors here gave me the confidence and structure I needed; I passed my Level 2 and now I’m working part-time at my local gym while studying for my Level 3 PT.”

Jordan Thompson

Level 2 Gym Instructor

“I left school without Maths or English and it always held me back. The Functional Skills course was supportive from day one - no pressure, just progress. I’m now applying for a TA course and feel like doors are finally opening.”

Shazia Patel

Functional Skills

“Learning on the job was the best decision I made. I’m working with young players every week, gaining real experience, and getting a valuable qualification at the same time. The support from CDA has been outstanding.”