You will learn about information systems used in business, systems analysis and design, and create databases that could be used in industry. Students are required to undertake a two week work experience normally scheduled for January. Maths and English are a integral part of this course

Games Development, Networking is covered in greater depth in this course together with an introduction to programming. You will complete modules that include learning about IT, Business, Software Development and also System Support. Visits are arranged with local employers to give you insight into how systems are used in the workplace.

This course is made up of 18 units, some of which are mandatory. All students take the following core units in year 1:

Unit 1 - Communication and Employability Skills for IT
Unit 2 - Computer Systems
Unit 3 - Information Systems
Unit 8 – E-commerce
Unit 10 – Communication Technologies
Unit 18 – Database Design

To make up the total of 18 units, a further 12 units will be taken dependant on your pathway (120-180 credits). The list below contains some of the likely units to be studied although the list is subject to change and some units not listed here may be studied.

BTEC Level 3 Extended Diploma in IT (Networking and Systems Support Pathway)

Year 1 - BTEC Level 3 Extended Diploma in IT (Networking and Systems Support) (180 Credits)

Unit 5 – Managing Networks
Unit 7 – Organisational Systems Security
Unit 14 – Event driven Programming

Year 2 - BTEC Level 3 Extended Diploma in IT (Networking and Systems Support)

Unit 9 – Computer Networks
Unit 12 – IT Technical Support
Unit 13 – IT Troubleshooting and Repair
Unit 11 – Systems Analysis and Design
Unit 26 – Mathematics for IT Practitioners
Unit 20 – Client Side Customisation of Web Pages
Unit 31 – Computer Animation
Unit 40 – Computer Games Design
Unit 15 – Object Oriented Programming

The course comprises a package of vocational and key-skills qualifications. Study time will also be timetabled to develop the Functional skills of Communication alongside any study support required to meet the individual needs of the learner.

Fees for 2018/19: £3,520

Please note: Fees are for 2018/19 entry and are for home and EU students. Students aged 16 to 18, or those aged 16 to 25 who have a valid EHCP, are not charged for course fees. For more information about financial support for students, please click here.

New Students

Five GCSE’s at grade 4 or above including maths and English

Progressing students

Level 2 Diploma at Merit plus English and maths. A satisfactory reference for attitude, behaviour, attendance and punctuality.

On successful completion of a BTEC National qualification, a learner can progress to or within employment and/or continue their study in the same or related vocational area.

Career options include Business, Information Systems or Database Management. Further education and training is available at Nescot, either on the BTEC Higher National Certificate (HNC/HND) or professional courses including CISCO, Microsoft and Oracle.

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

Teaching & Learning Methods

Various teaching and learning methods will be used in the classroom to ensure your learning experience is positive and rewarding. Classroom activities may involve group work, peer assessment, role play, discussion, written work and assignment work. Lectures, Demonstrations, Self-directed study, Practical work, Presentations, Tutorials and Online Reading. External visits may be organised as appropriate to complement the program of activities in the classroom.

Assessment methods

You will be assessed in various ways, including; Observations, Group work, Written assessment, Tests and Exams, Oral presentations, Project and time constrained assessments.

Last updated - 21/02/18