IT – Digital Solutions

This course is aimed at learners who wish to develop their IT skills to work in a wide range of industries from Games development to Cyber Security, to Web Development.  

This course provides the knowledge, skills and understanding for learners thinking about employment in the IT Industry, and you are still refining which specialism you would like to progress into in the vast field of information technology.   

The course has a broad first year, and in the second year you will explore your interests developed in this first year in more depth. 

On this course you will: 

• Explore a range of core IT topics, in your first year from an indepth programming module, through to running a social media campaign, designing a website and setting up a database
• In the second year, all learners study in depth crucial skills to work in the industry – Cyber Security and 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 Computer Games, Digital Animation, Digital 2D and 3D Graphics, Cloud Technology, Software Testing  
• Work in a dedicated and well-equipped IT lab using specialist software that directly mirrors what is used in industry 
• Have the option to join several exciting trips to see IT in industry and gaming exhibitions 
• 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 EDF Hinckley Point C 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, plus social trips such as Thorpe Park
• There will also be a trip to the Disneyland Paris Computing Live! student event

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. External Exams are in January, May and June.

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 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 of work in IT.

Next steps: You can either progress on to our HNC/D in Computing or to an Apprenticeship, example 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 or 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.

You will need a grade 4 (or above) in GCSE English Language and Maths. Plus, you will need three GCSEs at grade 4 or above, or equivalent. Learners progressing from a Level 2 course will need a BTEC Level 2 Diploma with a good Merit profile, along with English and Maths GCSE at grade 4 or above, or equivalent. In addition, 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.