ABOUT THE COURSE
This qualification is designed to support learners who wish to study IT as a one-year, full-time course, or for those wishing to take it alongside another area of complementary or contrasting study as part of a two-year, full-time study programme. It supports progression to higher education if taken as part of a programme of study that includes other appropriate BTEC Nationals or A Levels.
This course focuses on developing your transferable skills in a variety of business and IT work-related scenarios. You will develop program design and practical programming skills, a well as covering mathematics, data security, web and multimedia design, employability skills, and understanding the role of IT in Business. You will use software tools such as Microsoft Access, Excel and Microsoft Project to solve complex business problems.
The second year of the course focuses on developing your analytical, design and evaluative skills. You will cover advanced programming concepts and techniques and will have the opportunity to create a simple game using Apple`s X Code software for the iPad. You will also work on a project to meet a specific business need. This will involve producing a specification and design, which you will use to create either a website, database, spreadsheet, or complex multimedia presentation.
Extended Diplomas have two one-year programmes. You need to finish the first year before moving on to the second.
WHAT WILL I STUDY?
This course consists of two separate qualifications. In your first year of study, you will work towards the Level 3 90-Credit Diploma. Following successful completion of this qualification, you will be able to progress to the Extended Diploma. Our Extended Diplomas offer equivalent UCAS points to studying 3 A Levels.
Topics covered can include:
Year One
- Information Technology Systems
- Creating Systems to Manage Information
- Using Social Media in Business
- Programming
- Website Development
- Computer Games Development
Year Two
- Data Modelling
- IT Project Management
- Cyber Security and Incident Management
- Software Testing
- IT Service Delivery
- Digital Animation and Effects
WHAT WILL I NEED?
You will need:
- Four GCSEs at grade 4 or above, including English Language and Maths or an equivalent Level 2 qualification at Merit (and Functional Skills in English and Maths at Level 2/GCSE English Language and Maths at grade 4 or above)
All applicants must have an interview to confirm that the course is suitable for them.
HOW WILL I BE ASSESSED?
There are three main forms of assessment that you need to be aware of - external, internal and synoptic.
Externally-assessed units
External assessment are to allow you to demonstrate breadth and depth of achievement. Each assessment is taken under specified conditions, then marked by Pearson and a grade awarded. You are permitted to resit (x3) external assessments during their programme.
Internally-assessed units
Most units in the qualification are internally assessed and subject to external standards verification. This means the college sets and assesses the assignments.
Synoptic assessment
Synoptic assessment requires you to demonstrate that you can identify and use effectively, in an integrated way, an appropriate selection of skills, techniques, concepts, theories and knowledge from across the whole sector as relevant to a key task.
WHAT WILL IT COST?
Aged 16-18
If you will be aged 16, 17 or 18 on 31st August prior to the start date of your course and you have the legal right to remain in the UK for the duration of your programme then your study with us will be free. Please see here for the documents you will need to show us.
Some courses will have other associated costs, such as for specialist materials and trips. Many of our students are eligible for financial support, see here for details.
Adults - Level 3
If you will be aged 19 to 23 prior to the start date of your course, and do not already have a full Level 3 qualification, you may be eligible for a Level 3 entitlement, in which case your study with us will be free. If you are older, or already have a Level 3, we have many other Level 3 courses that are also free to study. Otherwise, you will have to pay the fees yourself or apply for an Advanced Learner Loan.
Please see here for the documents you will need to show us.
Some courses will have other associated costs, such as for specialist materials and trips. Many of our students are eligible for financial support, see here for details.
WHAT CAN I DO AFTER?
On successful completion of this course, you could progress to higher education, an apprenticeship or other employment.
WHERE STUDENTS PROGRESS TO AFTER THIS COURSE
0%
of people went into Education, not Higher Education, after completing the course
0%
of people went into Higher Education after completing the course
MEET SOME OF THE TEACHERS
David Ward
David is an experienced ICT instructor with a passion for computer programming. He has worked in the IT sector for over eight years and holds a Bachelor's degree in Management and Computing. David has contributed to education in various settings, including GCSE and higher education, and has earned a Level 7 Postgraduate Certificate in Education (PGCE) for Further Education.
Before he started teaching, David gained practical experience in the IT sector, working on various projects, from software development to web apps. This experience gave him valuable insights and a deep understanding of ICT.
David finds teaching adults and students in the 16-18 age group to be an enriching experience. He enjoys fostering a collaborative and mature learning environment, which allows for real-world context and diverse perspectives. David particularly appreciates the enthusiasm for technology and the thirst for knowledge that the 16-18 age group possesses.
Working at CCCG has been a fulfilling and transformative experience for David. He finds the institution's commitment to fostering a holistic learning experience to be inspiring. Collaborating with colleagues who share a passion for education and technology creates a vibrant atmosphere where innovative teaching practices can thrive.
David is excited to continue nurturing the next generation of tech-savvy individuals and contributing to the dynamic field of computer programming at CCCG. He finds joy in witnessing students grasp intricate programming concepts and is eager to continue his journey as an educator.
The teachers listed may change, these shown are an example of the teachers who teach on these programmes.