Course Overview
This course is designed to equip you with the skills required by employers in the workplace such as Web design, networking, mobile app development and computer hardware.
Entry Requirements
New Students
Four GCSE’s at grade 3 or above including English and maths. We also require a good reference from your school alongside your application.*
Progressing Students
Progressing students must achieve at least a Merit in their Level 1 course to move onto a Level 2. A good reference for attitude, behaviour, attendance and punctuality is essential.
*The College reserves the right to ask for a school reference if required
What the course covers
On this BTEC Level 2 course, you will develop key skills in:
- Technology Systems : Understanding the structure and operation of various technology systems.
- Digital Portfolios : Creating and managing digital portfolios to showcase your work.
- Computer Networks : Learning about the fundamentals of computer networks and how they function.
- Website Development : Gaining hands-on experience in designing and developing websites.
- Hardware : Understanding computer hardware components and their function.
- Software : Exploring different types of software, including system and application software.
Throughout the course, you will also build essential communication, literacy, and numeracy skills, which are vital for success in computing and IT.
Teaching and Industry Experience
At NESCOT, our tutors have extensive industry experience, ensuring that your learning is practical, relevant, and up-to-date. Guest lecturers from the computing and IT sectors will provide valuable insights into real-world career opportunities.
Trips will take place throughout the year to exhibitions, and guest speakers will also come into the college.
Use of The IoT (Institute of Technology) as a NESCOT Student
As a NESCOT student, you will have access to the IoT campus, a state-of-the-art facility that immerses you in the latest digital technologies, robotics, cyber security, AI, networking, cloud computing, and much more.
The IoT campus offers a wide range of advanced learning environments, including Virtual Reality Suites, where you can explore cutting-edge technology, and Cyber Security Labs, designed to simulate real-world security challenges. Additionally, you’ll have the opportunity to interact with our very own robots, gaining hands-on experience that enhances your understanding of digital systems.
Student Success and Progression
We encourage students to participate in competitions and work experience opportunities to enhance their skills and confidence. Many students progress to further study, including the Level 3 BTEC in Computing here at NESCOT. You must achieve at least a Merit in your Level 2 to progress.
Assessment
Units 1 and 2 are online tests, which are marked externally. The remaining units are assessed through coursework, where you will produce a mixture of presentations, hands-on practical tasks, reports, and written tasks.
Work Experience
Work experience is an important part of this course. You will have the opportunity to gain up to two weeks of work placement, working with a client through simulated projects within the college. Support will be provided throughout the experience.
Assessment
Assessment for the course consists of both coursework and external assessments. You will be fully supported and prepared by the teaching team to achieve the assessments through regular lessons.
Fees and funding
Students aged 16 to 18, or those aged 16 to 24 with a valid EHCP, who are studying Further Education courses are not charged course fees.
For more information about financial support, please visit our Student Finance and Bursaries page. Click here for the Student Finance and Bursaries page
Progression
Following successful completion of this course (Merit profile at level 2), you can progress on to Level 3 BTEC Extended Diploma in IT and Computing.
Potential career routes in the Computing industry:
- Audio visual technology
- Business administration
- Business management
- Consultant
- Customer service
- Data analyst
- Database programmer
- Games developer
- Helpdesk
- Network installation
- Programmer
- Security expert
- Software developer
- Support technician
- System analyst
- Web designer
Duration
One year