Why Study IT Level 3?
Information Technology AAQ equips students with essential knowledge and practical skills for the ever-evolving digital world. The course prepares learners for a range of future pathways, including university-level study and careers in the IT and cyber sectors, through a balance of theoretical understanding and hands-on application.
Students will explore the core principles of IT systems, website and database development, and cyber security. The qualification emphasises the development of digital, critical thinking, and problem-solving skills—key attributes sought by employers and higher education providers alike.
Students study for the Pearson AAQ Level 3 National Extended Certificate in Information Technology (equivalent to 1 A Level), and cover the following units:
- Unit 1 – Information Technology Systems – Externally Assessed
Learn how IT systems operate, the role of hardware and software, and their impact on organisations and individuals. - Unit 2 – Cyber Security and Incident Management – Externally Assessed
Investigate types of cyber threats, system vulnerabilities, and the strategies used to protect and recover data. - Unit 3 – Website Development – Internally Assessed NEA
Develop skills to plan, build, and evaluate interactive websites to meet user requirements. - Unit 4 – Relational Database Development – Internally Assessed NEA
Design and implement relational databases to manage and analyse data securely and effectively.
This qualification is ideal for students who want to develop a solid foundation in Information Technology alongside other A Level subjects.
Why Study IT Level 3 at Worcester Sixth Form College?
The department offers excellent teaching and learning facilities, including dedicated study areas equipped with specialist hardware and software for IT students for use outside of lessons.
Students are encouraged to develop their skills within industry with many students completing relevant work experience at local IT specialist companies.
Students benefit from varied enrichment opportunities which have recently included:
- visiting speakers and workshops from local companies including Sanctuary Group, Phixos and Boswell Ltd
- a visit to the National Museum of Computing at Bletchley Park, once the top-secret home of the World War Two Codebreakers where Alan Turing created the first computer
- the Computer Games Design enrichment programme - an extracurricular club for students keen to learn about the key principles of game design and get hands on experience of designing and creating their own games.
Lauren Winkworth
Progression Opportunities
This course can give you the practical skills and knowledge to progress to a wide range of roles within the IT industry including IT technician, programmer, network support specialist, data analyst, digital marketer, web designer or project manager.
Many of our students go on to higher education, studying a range of IT based degrees including Cyber Security, Games Development and Management Information Systems. Alternatively, students have used the relationships forged with local companies to secure Higher Apprenticeships, enabling them to continue with their studies whilst also gaining hands on experience in industry
Entry Requirements
| Essential Qualifications | Other Desirable Qualifications / Combinations | Skills & Attributes Required for Success | Guidance on Costs or Commitments |
|---|---|---|---|
| Please see ‘General Course Entry Requirements’ | GCSE Maths and English at grade 4 or above, otherwise will be added to your programme of study | Good awareness of IT applications. A desire to gain an insight into the fast moving IT industry, encompassing data use, programing, business, web and security issues. | Work placement insurance check |
Qualification Levels & Enrollment Options
| Qualification Name | A Level Equivalence | Duration | Awarding Body |
|---|---|---|---|
| Extended Certificate | 1 A Level (1 Block) | 1 year (studied after successful completion of Certificate) | Pearson BTEC Nationals Technicals |
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