4 minute read

Computing

There are dozens of roles within computing as new technology is emerging and becoming more advanced. Our computing courses could help you turn your interest into a future career as you will develop new skills in areas such as responsive web design, computer games development, programming and network management and lots more.

We invite guest speakers into class throughout the year to give you an insight into working in IT. You will also work on work-related projects using live briefs to get a feel for what it’s really like working in the IT industry.

BTEC LEVEL 1 IN DIGITAL MEDIA

LEVEL 1 – 1 YEAR WHAT WILL I DO?

There are dozens of roles within the digital media sector as new technology is emerging and becoming more advanced.

Our digital media course can help you turn your interest into a future career as you will develop new skills in areas such as creating storyboards, adverts, animations and media products. We invite guest speakers into class throughout the year to give you an insight into working in the digital media sector.

YOU NEED:

There are no entry requirements for this course, however, you will require a successful interview.

WHAT’S NEXT?

On successful completion of the course with the correct grade, you can progress onto the BTEC Level 2 Computing or onto the UAL Level 2 in Games Design or an equivalent level 2 course.

EXTENDED CERTIFICATE IN INFORMATION AND CREATIVE TECHNOLOGY

LEVEL 2 – 1 YEAR WHAT WILL I DO?

This course will help you develop your understanding and provide the relevant skills to understand and progress in to the world of computing. You will engage in a range of exciting and varied units to help you decide on the route you wish to follow to get to your chosen destination of employment.

Skills include the online world, technology systems, creating a digital portfolio, creating digital graphics, software development and installing computer software.

YOU NEED:

A relevant level 1 qualification or four GCSEs at grade at 3 or above.

WHAT’S NEXT?

On successful completion of the course with the correct grade, you can progress on to BTEC Level 3 Computing or an equivalent level 3 course. You can also progress to an apprenticeship in a junior position in industry.

If you don’t have English and maths at GCSE grade 9-4, you will continue to work towards this as part of your main programme of study.

Xander & Jack

Computing

NATIONAL EXTENDED DIPLOMA IN INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY

LEVEL 3 – 2 YEARS WHAT WILL I DO?

This course will help you develop the skills you need in order to understand the complexity and variety of the IT industry. You will study units equivalent to three A levels.

In addition to your main study programme, you will also engage in activities to develop your English, maths and employability skills as well as taking part in work experience placements.

YEAR 1:

Principles of Computer Science Fundamentals of Computer Systems IT Systems Security and Encryption Business Applications and Social Media

YEAR 2:

Planning and Management of Computing Projects Business Applications of Social Media The Impact of Computing

YOU NEED:

A merit in a relevant level 2 qualification or five GCSEs at grade 4 or above (including maths and English). Computer Science GCSE is preferable but not essential.

WHAT’S NEXT?

Successful completion of the Diploma/ Extended Diploma may enable entry onto the BSc (Hons) at various HE establishments.

Career opportunities may include:

• Software engineering • Business systems • IT project management • System administration • Networking • Security • IT user support • Web development

DIGITAL T LEVEL: DIGITAL, PRODUCTION, DESIGN AND DEVELOPMENT*

LEVEL 3 - 2 YEARS

WHAT WILL I DO?

During the two-year programme, you will develop the core knowledge and skills that are needed for entry to a range of software production and design occupations.

You will gain an understanding of software production and design including: web development, web design, software development, computer game testing, computer game development, e-learning development and user experience (UX) design.

You will also undertake a high quality, structured and outcomes-focused industry placement, this is an integral part of the new T Level programme. The industry placement will be aligned to your career aspirations identified in your career plan. This will equate to a minimum of nine weeks.

The industry placements will support you to develop a breadth of new skills to provide you with a valuable opportunity to progress towards your career goals

YOU NEED:

Five GCSEs grades 4, or above, and must include a minimum of grade 5 in English, maths and science. You will also require a successful interview.

WHAT’S NEXT?

Progression onto university to study, software development, games design or other related degree programmes, higher apprenticeships or employment in the software production and development sectors.

Brooke

Computing *Please note these are new courses and are subject to approval/change.

Xander & Jack

Computing

WHAT CAN I EARN?

Software developer Web developer Network manager IT technician IT project manager £47,573 £36,971 £40,946 £23,386 £48,009

Information sourced from uk.indeed.com in July 2022 and is based on average UK estimates of wages per year.