Information Technology (IT) - BTEC Extended Certificate (AAQ)

Applications Open: 3rd November 2025

Applications Close: 1st September 2026

Entry Requirements: Please see courses for more information

How to Apply: Via Kent Choices website

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).

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)

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

Including

• Grade 4 in GCSE English Language

• Grade 4 in GCSE Mathematics

This qualification can lead to progression to the following degrees:

• BA Business Studies

• BSc Information Systems

• BSc Computer Science