About the course

The Level 3 course provide learners with an introduction to the skills, qualities and knowledge that are required for employment in the broad computing sector. They serve as a progression to Higher Education and Apprenticeships. In addition to the main qualification, the programme offers pastoral care and support (group tutorials and 1-1 support), English, Maths and an additional qualification and enrichment activities. Learners are encouraged to develop their interpersonal skills and to become independent learners.The Computing program meets the needs of the Post 16 learners who come to College with a view to forging a career in the IT/Computing sector. The program is geared as an entry point to access skills that could be used to progress on to university, apprenticeship programmes or employment. Links are being developed into the local industry. One area of excellence is the link to the on campus ILT team. Work experience is being offered by companies in the area and this is valuable for these learners to develop their understanding of the roles they aspire to achieve after education. Taught by former industry professionals and educationalists who know what it takes for successful careers in the technology industry. Hands-on training and support will leave learners with a robust skill set for current and future career pathways.

Start Date/s

04/09/2023, 04/09/2023

Entry Requirements

The requirements for this course are a minimum of 5 grade 5’s at GCSE. One of these grades needs to be Maths, English or English Literature. A prior qualification in computing is preferred but not essential

Modules

Over the two years you will complete the below units. The units cover an array of disciplines and specialisms within the computing industry. Unit 1: Principles of Computer Science (Exam Based Unit) Unit 2: Fundamentals of Computer Systems (Exam Based Unit) Unit 3: Planning and Management of Projects (Exam Based Unit) Unit 4: Software Design and Development (Exam Based Unit) Unit 7: IT Systems Security and Encryption Unit 8: Business Applications of Social Media Unit 9: The Impact of Computing Unit 11: Digital Graphics and Animation Unit 14: Computer Games Development Unit 15: Website Development Unit 16: Object Oriented Programming Unit 19: Computer Networking Unit 21: Virtualisation

Assessment

You will have two summative exam assessments at the end of each year. The remaining nine units are portfolio based where you will produce a report, but also design, develop and implement a practical task based on an industry scenario. Regular weekly formative assessments will take place such as observations, quizzes and research tasks. Exams are a combination of multiple choice and short answers in year one but have practical examinations in year two. If a student is not happy with a grade then they have the option of retaking the exam the following term.

Careers & Progression

With computing being very broad, progression opportunities are a plenty. Students progress to Higher Education where they undertake a BSc in Computing or a BSc in Cyber Security. Apprenticeships are also a progression opportunity with roles such as infrastructure technicians and support analysts a common path for learners. Depending on specialism salaries can range from £16,000pa - £42,000pa at an entry level.

Additional Details