ICT Extended Certificate Level 3

This course is designed to offer students an opportunity to undertake high-quality, employment-related learning with a focus on Information and Computing Technologies. Students who are considering this course should have an interest in what makes computers work, how technology can help to solve world problems, and the use of social media and websites in business. Students will develop the skills and understanding that they will find useful in their chosen career, preparing them for progression to higher or further education or into employment or apprenticeships.

Students will learn about a range of IT topics, including digital devices, networking, cloud computing, and emerging technologies – including how individuals and businesses can make effective use of these systems. Students will also study how to create and manage databases, and how social media is used by businesses. Finally, a web design unit has been selected to provide greater insight into the theory of web design and give students practical website-building skills.

Students will be assessed by both external exams and coursework-assessed projects in which students will learn to research and assimilate information to produce professional business reports.

At least 5 GCSE grades 9-4, including English or Maths.

Students completing this course could consider a career in the technology sector, or a Level 3 apprenticeship. Students could continue education at degree level in technical and creative IT courses such as database management, social media and digital marketing, or web technology.