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Level 3
Computing BTEC Level 3 Certificate/Ext Certificate
COURSE OVERVIEW
This course is intended as an applied general qualification and is the equivalent of one A Level at the end of the second year. Computing is an intensely creative subject that combines invention and excitement, and can look at the natural world through a digital prism. Advances in computing are transforming the way we work and live, and many great challenges lie ahead for Computer Scientists to solve. This qualification is designed to support students who have an interest in Computing and the practical application of this subject, which can then have progression paths into apprenticeships, employment and higher education. This is an extremely exciting sector to study in and be a part of. Students will study a total of four units across two years to achieve the Extended Certificate. In year 1, students will study two mandatory units: Unit 2 – Fundamentals of Computer Systems (examined) Students will study the fundamentals of how computer systems work, including the role of hardware & software, the way components of a system work together and how data in a system is used. Unit 7 -; IT Systems Security & Encryption (coursework) Students will study IT system security threats and the methods used to protect against them. Students will undertake activities to protect IT systems from security threats, including data encryption. In year 2, students will study one mandatory unit and one selected coursework unit: Unit 1 -; Principles of Computer Science (examined) Students will cover the principles that underpin all areas of computer science. Students will develop their computational-thinking skills and these will be applied to solve problems that are set. Staff will then select one unit from a choice from the following units based upon expertise, sector need, resourcing and learner engagement; Unit 10 -; Human-Computer Interaction Unit 11 -; Digital Graphics and Animation Unit 14 -; Computer Games Development Unit 15 -; Website Development Unit 17 -; Mobile Apps Development Unit 20 -; Managing & Supporting Systems Unit 22 -; Systems Analysis & Design Lessons will be a mixture of theory and practical based with the aim of providing the student the opportunity to be “hands on” and allowed to bring the theory to life. A student with a passion for the subject as well as a positive outlook on their own development is a must to ensure that they gain the maximum benefit from the course and staff expertise that they would have at their disposal. As students are assessed throughout the course, they must be highly organised and motivated to exceed expectations. Where students require support, our staff are on hand for subject support from day one either on a 1-to-1 basis or in smaller tutored groups.
FURTHER INFORMATION
You need a minimum of five GCSEs at 9-4 including grade 4 in English and Maths. Technology evolves at breakneck speed, so to stay ahead students need both enthusiasm and curiosity, and to be capable of experimentation and innovation. Students will be expected to engage in activities outside of the classroom to enhance their learning such as listening to pod casts, watching vlogs, and reading topical articles. Whilst on the course students will be making themselves even more employable by developing skills such as cognitive & problem solving (being creative to apply subject knowledge to solve challenges that they face), intrapersonal skills (to work collaboratively, negotiating and influencing) and interpersonal skills (self management, resilience and adaptability). This is really important as part of your personal development and journey.
When taken alongside other A Level and/or Vocational qualifications it could support further study within HE on degrees such as: BSc (Hons) in Computing BSc (Hons) in Information Management for Business BSc (Hons) in Business Computing with Analytics BSc (Hons) in Cyber-security Management BSc (Hons) Business Information Systems BSc (Hons) Computing Science BSc (Hons) Computer Game Applications Development BSc (Hons) Network and Security Plus many more… Courses can be found on the UCAS website (UCAS.com), so please begin your research today and ask any questions with regards to progression routes. Some university courses may require the achievement of specific units and learners should always check the entry requirements for degree programmes with specific higher education providers. This qualification will support professional careers in roles such as Business Information Management, Technical Service Support, Marketing Support, IT/Cyber Security Consultant, Games Developer, Systems Analyst and Business Systems Security.
The BTEC Computing course combines both internally and externally assessed units, which are produced in line with the exam board. Students are required to develop a range of skill sets to ensure that they work towards realising their full potential on this course. Examined units are as follows; Year 1 Unit 2 -; Fundamentals of Computer Systems -; 1 hour 45 minute exam (80 marks) Year 2 Unit 1 -; Principles of Computer Science -; 2 hour exam (90 marks). Please note that this exam is synoptic, so it requires the student to apply learning from across the whole qualification (Year 1 content as well). Students will draw on their learning of computational-thinking skills to effectively analyse a computing programme. This will encourage learners to draw on their broader learning as well as their understanding of the sector.
Upon enrolment, students will be expected to purchase the Revision Guides and Workbooks as part of this course. At the College we feel this is vital to ensure that all students are fully resourced to be a real success in all aspects of the course. Staff will also ensure that resources are available to you (such as knowitallninja.com) to ensure that your learning experience is a positive one.
Popular combinations with Computing include A Levels in Maths, Statistics, Sciences and Psychology as these qualifications link well with the specific areas of study of this course. However, the course ensures flexibility for those students who want to combine their study of Computing with any other A Level/Applied General qualifications offered by the college.