This qualification enables you to gain a broad knowledge of IT subjects, to explore the opportunities offered in the IT sector and to acquire appropriate vocational skills. You will study how IT is used to communicate within businesses, the career opportunities available in the IT industry, how businesses use spreadsheets and databases, and how to present information effectively.
You will also develop your skills in maths and English, which will support your main programme of study, help your future progression and enhance your life skills.
You need four GCSEs at grade D or above (grade 3 or above), to include English and/or Maths. You will be expected to re-sit GCSE Maths and/or English if you achieved a grade D (grade 3). Alternatively, you should have a Merit grade qualification at Level 1, along with Level 1 Literacy and Numeracy.
You are required to complete units from the list below:
You will also take Functional Maths and English and/or GCSE.
The BTEC involves a combination of coursework and exams - with assessment methods including presentations, posters, observations and various research projects.
Your Functional Skills Maths and English qualification is assessed by a portfolio and online assessment and/or GCSE exams.
You should provide a USB memory stick.
You can progress to the National Foundation Diploma programme or commence employment at a junior level. Progressing to an apprenticeship is also an option. If choosing to study further at Derby College, you will continue to develop your skills in maths and English.
After finishing school I wanted to focus specifically on IT and achieved better results when doing course work so chose a BTEC National Diploma at Derby College. I really enjoyed focusing solely on IT but having various different disciplines with the IT, it gave me a varied understanding of what is expected within each different branch of IT. My time at the College gave me an understanding of different roles that I could do in a work environment and what skills are applicable in each field. I use of the technical programming skills I learnt at the College on a day to day basis.
The most exciting part of my current role is training and developing new staff members, helping them to learn new technical process and learning transferable skills that can go across the industry.