BEFORE YOU ENROL
Is this course right for me?
If you want to become a personal trainer and you want to actually feel ready on day one — yes. EPTA graduates come from all backgrounds. Plumbers. Architects. Pharmacists. University students. What they have in common is they wanted to do this properly.
What format is the course?
10 weeks. Saturdays only, 12–4pm. In person at Fitness Street, Edinburgh. No online modules between sessions. Show up, work hard, and you’ll be coached through everything.
What if I can't make every Saturday?
Life is busy — athletes, family, work commitments. As long as it’s planned in advance, we can work around you. Just let James know ahead of time and he’ll sort it.
How much does it cost?
£1,850 in full. Payment plans available — 3, 4, or 6 months. James manages these directly. No credit checks, no finance companies. Drop him a message and he’ll set it up.
Do I need any previous fitness qualifications?
No. The course covers Level 2 Gym Instructor and Level 3 PT together. You don’t need anything beforehand — just genuine commitment.
How many people are in each cohort?
8 to 15. That cap is deliberate. James teaches every session personally, and that only works with a small group. Every student gets direct attention and direct feedback.
DURING THE COURSE
What if I miss a week?
Let James know as early as possible. One session can be worked around. The sooner you communicate, the easier it is to manage.
What if I'm injured?
You can still complete the course. Observation, programming, communication — a significant part of the learning doesn’t require physical participation. Tell James what’s going on and he’ll adapt.
What if I'm struggling?
Tell James. That’s what he’s there for. Small cohort sizes exist precisely so struggling doesn’t go unnoticed. Nobody fails for finding it hard — they fail for not asking for help when they need it.
What if I'm neurodivergent?
EPTA has graduated neurodivergent students. Cameron is autistic and went through a serious illness requiring surgery during the course. James adapted the teaching and Cameron completed it. If you want to discuss your specific situation before enrolling, that conversation is welcome.
What if I don't finish the written work in 10 weeks?
Nobody fails for not finishing the written coursework on time. The written work can be completed at your own pace after the sessions end. No one gets left behind for taking longer on the paperwork.
AFTER YOU QUALIFY
What happens when I qualify?
You’ll have a CIMSPA and OFQUAL Level 3 qualification — the industry standard UK gyms recognise. You’ll have 40 hours of hands-on experience. And you’ll have James’s support and his graduate network behind you.
Will I get a job?
James actively helps with placement. EPTA has relationships with big box gyms, boutique studios across Edinburgh, and London Wellness Academy. Placement isn’t guaranteed — James would rather be honest than overpromise. What is guaranteed is that you’ll leave qualified, assessed, and confident enough to go after it yourself. Most graduates are employed or self-employed within three months.
What support is there after the course?
James doesn’t disappear when you qualify. Mentorship continues after the course ends. You have direct access to James and that doesn’t stop when you get your certificate.
Is the qualification recognised by employers?
Yes. CIMSPA and OFQUAL Level 3 are the accreditations UK gyms require. EPTA graduates have gone on to work at big box gyms, boutique studios, and to build independent PT businesses.
LOGISTICS
Where exactly is it?
Fitness Street, 545-551 Gorgie Rd, Edinburgh EH11 3AR. Street parking available. Local buses stop nearby.
When is the next cohort?
27 June 2026. Saturdays, 12–4pm, for 10 weeks. No session on 4 July.
How do I enrol?
Book a free call with James. It’s a straight conversation — not a sales call. He’ll answer your questions, make sure it’s the right fit, and take it from there.
Can I pay in instalments?
Yes. 3, 4, or 6 month payment plans available. James manages these directly. Message him to get it set up.
What do I need to bring?
Comfortable training clothes, water, and something to write with. Everything else is provided.
Still got a question that's
not answered here?
Book a call. It takes 15 minutes and James will answer anything.
No pitch. No pressure. Just a straight conversation.