IT

This course can be combined with two A Levels and an Extend course to make a full programme.

This course provides the knowledge, skills and understanding for learners thinking about employment as an IT user and is focused on the key software packages used by today’s businesses.

On this course you will:

• In your first year, learn to use IT systems in a unit that looks broadly across the IT spectrum. You will study computer hardware and networking and their use in business, art, society and education and find out more about how the development of IT impacts our world and our future.
• In your first year, you will develop your own website using HTML and CSS which will be assessed by coursework. Work in a dedicated and well-equipped IT lab using specialist software that directly mirrors what is used in industry
• In your second year you will develop skills to build a database an essential part of any online data source, you will gain an understanding of data structures and how to generate useful information for users in terms using the powerful query tools, and generate forms and reports of the data so that a non-technical user has quality information
• In your second year you will learn about Cyber Security. Developing an understanding of methods to combat threat actors in our modern world, an essential skill in the IT Industry, and a key element to understanding the online world we live in. Taught using practical methods as well as theory
• Visit or have speakers from companies such as EDF, BT and the Met Office. So you can see how what you learn applies to real IT businesses and makes a difference
• Go on trips to places such as Hinkley Point C nuclear power station, European Gaming Convention and Thorpe Park

We provide a range of teaching and assessment methods in the form of written work, practical demonstrations, and guidance and support in developing your own products.

This course is ideal if you enjoy using computers and have a career aspiration that might involve IT skills.

Future Steps: You can progress to further studies in IT, for example, you could go on to study a HND in Computing at Exeter College or you could go on to apply for employment in a wide range of roles that value IT skills from Accountancy to Technicians. This course is equivalent to one A Level, so can also be used for progression to university.

This course must be combined with others and goes particularly well with creative, technical or career-oriented courses, such as Media Studies and Business.

• Six GCSEs at grade 4 or above, including English Language and Maths
• Learners are expected to have an interest in computers and/or IT, with a career aim in a computing-related field

You will have access to a Learning Resource Centre (LRC) with a range of books and journals including many available electronically through Dawson e-books. The LRC also has subscriptions to PCPro and .Net magazine with articles on current developments in the computing world. Additionally there is a suite of computers that may be booked to carry out individual work and research.

The Faculty has an IT Lab with a curriculum support technician allowing learners to investigate the workings of modern PCs and networks. Practical sessions include the provision for dismantling and assembling computer hardware as well as configuring and managing local computer networks and server technologies.

As a student of the IT course, learners will have the opportunity to apply for access to free software from Microsoft to support their studies.

There is a refectory in Victoria House serving hot and cold drinks and snacks.

The course is supported by two core text books, which will cost around £25 each.

In addition, learners will have the opportunity to attend a number of trips and outings which are separately costed.