BTEC AAQ Information Technology Extended Certificate

This is a one-year level 3 extended certificate and is aimed at students who want to explore the information technology sector. It provides a foundation for progression to a broad range of higher education courses, including those not directly related to IT. This course is the equivalent of one A-level intended to be studied alongside maths or English retakes as part of a wider study programme. The qualification includes two externally examined units and two units assessed internally through practical assignments, giving students the opportunity to apply and strengthen their information technology knowledge and skills.

This qualification was created in collaboration with higher education professionals and industry specialists to ensure that students develop the knowledge, understanding, and skills required to succeed at university level. It includes four compulsory units that focus on the following key areas: - Information Technology Systems: exploring how hardware and software interact, and examining the challenges and considerations involved in managing IT systems. - Cyber Security and Incident Management: understanding different forms of cyber attacks, identifying weaknesses in networked systems, and learning how to plan for and respond to security breaches. - Website Development: applying tools, methods, and processes used in building websites, with an emphasis on testing for usability, functionality, and suitability for purpose. - Relational Database Development: studying data structures, principles of data design, and the use of database management systems (DBMS). In addition there the development of transferable skills that are fully integrated into the unit�s teaching, learning, and assessment design. They are considered �naturally occurring,� meaning they are an inherent part of the unit content and do not require additional or separate activities to develop their interpersonal and problem solving skills. This qualification was created in collaboration with higher education professionals and industry specialists to ensure that students develop the knowledge, understanding, and skills required to succeed at university level. It includes four compulsory units that focus on the following key areas: - Information Technology Systems: exploring how hardware and software interact, and examining the challenges and considerations involved in managing IT systems. - Cyber Security and Incident Management: understanding different forms of cyber attacks, identifying weaknesses in networked systems, and learning how to plan for and respond to security breaches. - Website Deve

Assessments will consist of two externally assessed exams which will be sat around May/June. Additionally, internally assessed coursework is to be completed throughout the academic year by way of portfolio assignments.

Standard entry to this course requires a GCSE in both English and maths at grade 3 (D) or above is required or equivalent Functional Skills Level 1 in both English and maths. Additionally, this course requires one reference and it�s desirable that you can demonstrate 90% attendance. Applications from students who have a level 2 ICT/IT Diploma will be considered. If you have a real interest in ICT and are currently working on any of the subjects that we will be covering, we would welcome an application.

Once you have successfully completed and passed this course you can progress on to the AAQ in computing, coding, computer network security and encryption, which is another A-level equivalent. Should you achieve your maths and English at grade 4 you could be considered for a T level. Alternately, you could progress on to another AAQ in another area such as engineering.