Information Technology (AAQ) - Level 3 Alternative Academic Qualification

Applications Open: 21st November 2025 (9.00am)

Applications Close: 13th February 2026 (4.00pm)

How to apply:

- All INTERNAL applicants MUST apply via Applicaa using this link (coming soon!)

- All EXTERNAL applicants MUST apply via Kent Choices using this link https://www.kentprospectus.co.uk/login

- All correspondence between learners and the school after an application is made will be via Applicaa.

- All applicants (internal and external) will be invited in for a 1-1 guidance meeting.

- Those who have a successful guidance meeting will be offered a place to study at St John's Sixth Form from September 2026.

Course Details

The Pearson Level 3 Alternative Academic Qualification BTEC National in Information Technology (Extended Certificate) is an Alternative Academic Qualification (AAQ) designed for post-16 students with an interest in the Digital sector and aiming to progress to higher education as a route to graduate level employment.

The qualification has four mandatory units covering the following topics:

• Information Technology Systems – Information technology systems, including the relationship between software and hardware, and the issues related to IT systems

• Cyber Security and Incident Management – Types of cyber security attacks, the vulnerabilities in networked systems and how to plan and respond to attacks

• Website Development – The development tools, techniques and processes used in website development and how to test usability, functionality and fitness for purpose

• Relational Database Development – Structure of data, data design and database management systems (DBMS).

Modules Studied

In the Extended Certificate you will study the following units:

• Unit 1 – Information Technology Systems (External)

• Unit 2 – Cyber Security and Incidence Management (External)

• Unit 3 – Website Development (Internal)

• Unit 4 – Relational Database Development (Internal)

Exam Board: Pearson

Entry Requirements:

A minimum of 5 subjects at GCSE Grade 4/BTEC Level 2 Pass or higher:

Including

• Grade 4 in GCSE English Language or Literature

• Grade 4 in GCSE Mathematics

Which subjects will complement this qualification?

• Business

• Mathematics

• Psychology

• Art & Design

What further learning will this qualification lead to?

This qualification can lead to progression to the following degrees:

• BA Business Studies

• BSc Information Systems

• BSc Computer Science