This is a one year full-time course. A second-year full-time course is available on completion, leading to a full Level 3 qualification in IT equivalent to 3 'A' levels.
Summary
This qualification is for learners 16 years old or over who prefer to study IT in a context that allows them to learn and be assessed in ways that are practical and relevant to the IT sector.
This qualification is not just about being able to use computers. Employers have told us that they require people able to help develop systems, use IT as a tool to analyse data and develop applications. Therefore, this qualification is designed to give learners a range of specialist knowledge and transferable skills in the context of applied IT providing them with the opportunity to enter an apprenticeship, move directly into employment or progress to a related Higher Education (HE) course. The qualification also includes content aimed at providing the skills and knowledge necessary to work in the ever-growing Gaming industry.
What makes Computing at HRC special?
- You will work with employers on work placement to develop employability and communication skills
- You will be taught by industry-trained and qualified lecturers
- All computers are fitted with up-to-date hardware and software
- A great way to start your career in Computing
What do our students say?
"This is the best teaching experience I have had so far and is helping me achieve the targets and qualifications I wish for".
''I'm currently studying IT Level 2 User Skills and I'm enjoying the course. The teachers are there to help me when I need help and their feedback helps me to find out what I need to change or improve on''.
Career Destinations
We are proud that our students go on to a wide range of careers, including:
- Helpdesk Technician
- ICT Call Centre
- Network Technician/Engineer
- Games Developer
- Programmer
- Systems Engineer
and many other professions. A Level 3 qualification can also help you gain employment in unrelated fields such as creative media, policing, military and many more.
What will I be doing?
You will study the following units:
Unit 1: Information Technology Systems
Unit 2: Creating Systems to Manage Information
Unit 3: Using Social Media in Business
Unit 4: Programming
Unit 5: Data Modelling
Unit 6: Website Development
How will I be assessed?
Unit 1 is externally-assessed through a formal examination taken in January. There is one re-sit opportunity in June, if required.
Unit 2 is externally-assessed through a project set by Edexcel.
All other units are achieved through coursework assignments which are marked by our teaching team.
Entry requirements
At least 200 GCSE entry points with a minimum of 5 GCSEs. These should include a Grade 4 in English (language or literature) and a Grade 4 in maths.
Alternatively, you can join with a Level 2 IT qualification such as the Level 2 Cambridge Technical Diploma (with Merit grade or above) with Grade 4s in GCSE English and GCSE maths.
If you would like help understanding our entry requirements, give our Information Team a call on 01992 411411.
What do I need to bring?
You will need a memory stick as additional back-up and note-taking materials.
If you think you would benefit from financial support we have bursary options available for those who meet the criteria. Please note, this funding is not guaranteed and is subject to availability at the time of application.
Fee Information
Free to Home students under 19 on 31 August 2023.
If you are a Home student aged 19 or over on 31 August 2023, you may be liable to pay approximately £2,500 tuition fee for a Level 2 qualification and approximately £5,000 for a Level 3 qualification (these were the tuition fees for 2022/2023 and could be subject to change for 2023/2024).
If you are aged 19-23 you may also be entitled to free tuition if the course you choose is on a government-approved list and the qualification is your first full Level 2 or Level 3 qualification.
If you are aged over 24 and you have not achieved a full Level 3 qualification you may be entitled to free tuition if the qualification is listed on the Government Free courses for jobs list. Similarly, if you already hold a Level 3 qualification (or above) and meet the Adult Education Budgets definition of unemployed or are in receipt of low wage, you may also be entitled to free tuition.
You may also be required to pay an administration fee, exam fees, kit fee and an Awarding Body Registration fee if applicable.
For these costs please contact our Information Centre on 01992 411411 or email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..
These fees are indicative of the 2024-25 costs and may be subject to change
Additional Costs
You may be required to pay a trip and resources fee.
