Level 3 Extended Certificate in IT: Data Analytics

Applications Open - 10th November 2025

Applications Close - 31st January 2026

Entry Requirements - For entry into year 12 to begin A Level and/or vocational courses, students must meet the minimum requirements in English and Mathematics (grade 4), however most courses require significantly higher grades in certain other GCSE subjects to access them.

How to Apply -

• Internal students – apply via Applicaa (school have emailed all students a link)
• External Students – apply using Applicaa from the Trinity School website under Sixth Form - Apply here

Students are required to study a minimum of 3 and a maximum of 4 subjects.

Skills Acquired

This qualification aims to develop students’ key knowledge, understanding, and skills in the principles of data analytics, including:

• Creative, critical, and analytical thinking.

• Practical skills in data modelling, machine learning, and database management.

• Communication, evaluation, planning, and research skills essential for higher education and employment.

• Confidence in applying IT knowledge to real-world contexts, fostering independence and innovation.

Students Suited to the Course

This course is ideal for students with an interest in IT, data analytics, and the role of technology in a rapidly changing world. Those with a curiosity for exploring data-driven insights, databases, and emerging technologies like machine learning and IoT will find it particularly engaging.

What Other Subjects Does It Combine Well With?

The AAQ in IT: Data Analytics pairs well with a wide range of A Level and vocational subjects, particularly:

• Business Studies

• Mathematics

• Computer Science

Its broad scope allows students to complement their theoretical knowledge with practical, real-world IT applications.

Careers or Higher Education the Course Leads To

This qualification provides a strong foundation for:

• University Degrees: Courses such as Data Science, Computer Science, Artificial Intelligence, or Cyber Security.

• Apprenticeships: Roles in IT infrastructure, data analysis, or software development.

• Careers: Opportunities as a data analyst, machine learning engineer, IT project manager, or IoT specialist.

The course is recognised for UCAS tariff points, making it an excellent stepping stone to higher education or employment.

Co-curricular Opportunities

To support learning and broaden understanding, students will have access to:

• Trips to businesses to see data analytics in action.

• Guest speakers from the IT industry sharing real-world insights.

• Extracurricular opportunities, such as tech clubs and IT competitions.

Course Structure

The Level 3 Extended Certificate in IT: Data Analytics is equivalent to one A Level. The course comprises five units: three mandatory and two optional, assessed through a mix of external exams and coursework.

Unit Content

Year 12

• Unit F200: Fundamentals of Data Analytics (Mandatory Unit) - Exam

Covers the foundational principles and tools of data analytics, essential for understanding the subject.

• Unit F201: Big Data and Machine Learning (Mandatory Unit) - Exam

Explores advanced data concepts, including big data technologies and the basics of machine learning.

Year 13

• Unit F202: Spreadsheet Data Modelling (Mandatory Unit) - Coursework

Hands-on experience in analysing and presenting data using spreadsheet tools to solve real-world problems.

• Unit F203: Relational Database Design (Optional Unit picked by school) - Coursework

Focuses on designing and managing relational databases, a highly relevant skill in IT.

• Unit F204: Data and the Internet of Everything (IoE) (Optional Unit picked by school) - Project-Based Coursework

Explores how connected devices interact in the modern world, building skills for IoT-related industries.

Exam

External exams focus on the knowledge and understanding of specific units. They can be retaken, with the highest grade awarded.

Coursework

Non-exam assessments (NEA) are completed over an extended period, allowing students to receive feedback and improve their work.

GCSE grade 4 in English

Cambridge Technicals provide a strong base for progression to university, apprenticeships or work and are recognised for UCAS tariff points. The skills picked up will make you employable in the IT sector as well provide progression for university or higher education routes or an apprenticeship.