T LEVEL: Digital Software Development

Do you want to start a career in software and digital design as, for example, a programmer, web designer, IT business analyst, systems designer, software development technician or digital marketer?

T Levels offer an attractive alternative to A-levels and apprenticeships, combining classroom theory, practical learning and a minimum 45-day industry placement with an employer to make sure you have real experience of the workplace.

They are developed in consultation with employers in the digital industry to ensure you learn the skills and behaviours that will give you the best opportunity to be successful when applying for work.

The content is split into a core component that is common to all Digital T Levels, and occupational specialism content that is specific to this T Level in Digital Production, Design and Development.

You need five GCSEs at grade 9-4 (A-C).

You must have achieved at least a grade 4 (C) in Maths and a grade 4 (C) in English.

The content is split into a core component that is common to all Digital T Levels, and occupational specialism content that is specific to this T Level in Digital Production, Design and Development.

The core component provides a broad understanding of the digital industry and covers the following digital-related topics:

* Business Context

* Culture

* Data

* Digital Analysis

* Digital Environments

* Diversity and Inclusion

* Learning

* Legislation

* Security

* Testing

* Tools

The content of the occupational specialism will cover the following topics:

* Analysing a problem to define requirements and acceptance criteria aligned to user needs

* Designing, implementing and testing software

* Changing, maintaining and supporting software

* Creating solutions in a social and collaborative environment

* Discovering, evaluating and applying reliable sources of knowledge

* Applying ethical principles and managing risks in line with legal and regulatory requirements when developing software

The core component will be assessed through a project set by employers in the industry and two externally-set tests. The occupational specialism content will allow you to develop the relevant skills in preparation for your career in the digital industry. 

The occupational specialism is assessed through a project that is created in conjunction with relevant employers.

T-Levels have a significant period of Work Placement alongside your study. You must be prepared to complete 315 hours of industry placement. It is beneficial if you have a contact in industry or can source your own placement.

You should be ready to learn and show an interest and willingness to engage with employers and companies in the sector.

The core component will be assessed through a project set by employers in the industry and two externally-set tests. The occupational specialism content will allow you to develop the relevant skills in preparation for your career in the digital industry. 

The occupational specialism is assessed through a project that is created in conjunction with relevant employers.

You will also have to complete 315 hours of work placement.

Achieving this qualification will give you an advantage when applying for a job in software production and design in the digital industry or when progressing to further study.

As part of this qualification, you will also enhance your broader skills in literacy and numeracy, which will be invaluable in supporting your progression in other areas.

In addition, you will develop transferable technical and practical skills in communication (working with colleagues, customers and clients), research and project work, providing you with an opportunity to demonstrate your reflective practice by suggesting alternative approaches to a problem.

We have a HTQ (Foundation Degree) course which will help you to achieve your first (Level 4) and second year (Level 5) modules for a final third year at the University of Derby – or any university of your choice – to achieve your final degree qualification. 

For more information, contact Derby College Group on 0800 0280289 or enquiries@derby-college.ac.uk