IT – Digital Solutions

This course is aimed at learners who wish to develop their IT skills to work in a wide range of industries such as Games Development, Cyber Security, Web Development, Data Analysis and Technical Support. This course provides the knowledge, skills and understanding for learners thinking about employment in the IT industry, and who are still refining which specialism they would like to progress into within the vast field of Information Technology. The course has a broad first year, with the option to develop your interests in more depth in the second year.

On this course you will:

• Explore a range of core IT topics in your first year, from programming, through to potentially running a social media campaign, or perhaps designing a website and setting up a database
• In the second year, all learners could study in-depth crucial skills to work in the industry areas such as Cyber Security or IT Service Desk Delivery and then undertake project management around a module which you are interested in from a range of possible options depending on your year group from units like Computer Games, Digital Animation, Digital 2D and 3D Graphics, Cloud Technology, IT Technical Support
• Work in a dedicated and well-equipped IT lab using specialist software that directly mirrors what is used in industry
• Visit companies such as BT and the Met Office. Opportunities to listen to speakers from across the wide range of industries which use IT skills from construction industry to cyber security industry. Visit to Hinkley Point C nuclear power station to see how new technologies are used in the energy industry
• Go on trips to places such as the European Gaming Convention and Bletchley Park and Thorpe Park
• Benefit from work experience as part of your programme of study

There will be a range of assessment methods for different modules, including: externally set and marked assignments; internally set and marked assignments; written exams and controlled timed assessments.

This course is ideal if you enjoy technology and have an interest in learning how to create your own software, test systems security and develop a wide range of technical skills in the continually growing area.

Future Steps: This Level 3 programme will equip you for progression on to our fantastic Higher Technical Education offering, the Higher National Diploma (HND) in Computing, or to an Apprenticeship. You can either progress on to our HNC/D in Computing or to an Apprenticeship. Opportunities could include a Meteorology Apprenticeship with the Royal Navy, a degree Apprenticeship with Roke or the Government, or employment in IT-related areas such as web development, creative computing, cyber security technician or analyst, networking, applications or service technician or proceed on to university level. Previous students have progressed to Computer Science, Ethical Hacking, Games Design or Development, and Cyber Security at university – from Plymouth to Newcastle.

• Six GCSEs at grade 4 or above, including English Language and Maths
  (If you do not achieve a grade 4 in GCSE English Language or Maths you may still be considered for this course, but you will be required to study this subject alongside your course)
• Learners progressing from a Level 2 course will need a Level 2 Diploma or T Level Foundation course with a good Merit profile, along with English Language and Maths GCSE at grade 4 or above
• 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.