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Course overview
The aim of this course is to provide you with a practical introduction to the field of computing. You will have the opportunity to explore a range of areas in the computing field and gain skills that will prepare you for employment in the subject area or progress to further courses.The course lasts one year and covers a wide range of areas within the field of computing. The course is usually divided into 8 units, which are as follows:
The Online World
Technology Systems
Digital Portfolio
Specialist units may include:
Creating Digital Graphics
Website Development
Database Development
Computer Networks
Multimedia
What else do I need to know?
In addition to studying the units, you will also complete functional skills or GCSEs in English and Maths and will be allocated directed study time. Alongside your course, you will study both English and/or Maths to improve your skills in these vital subjects by attending structured classes or completing directed study activities. English and Maths will be assessed in all of your work throughout your course.You will undertake a minimum of 3 days’ work experience to help gain valuable and employable skills to help when looking for employment following the course.
A tutor will be available to look after your personal welfare and support your non-teaching needs.
Trips will be available to students to help support the teaching on the course and external visitors will be invited in to talk about their specialism and help to motivate and encourage good progress on the programme.
What are the entry requirements?
You will need 4 GCSEs at grade 3 or above, one of which MUST be English or Maths. Achievement of an ITQ Level 1, DiDA Level 1 or equivalent full time level 1 course is also acceptable and must include GCSE maths or English at grade 3 or above. Students should also be able to provide school reports providing evidence of good attendance and effort, to support their application. If you do not have these entry requirements and are keen to join the course, we are happy to discuss your suitability during an interview.
How is it assessed?
17% external assessment (two exams) and 83% internal assessment by coursework. The course is usually structured into 8 units, these are likely to be delivered in 2 blocks of 4 units. Lessons will be of a practical nature including demonstrations and tutor-led activities resulting in the creation of various products such as websites. There will be some lessons covering the theory associated with the topics, as these are required to give practical work context.
You will be assessed through a range of assignment tasks, a large number of which will involve creation of products. These will be assessed against criteria to decide whether the work produced is of pass, merit or distinction level. At the end of the year you will be awarded a qualification grade based upon your achievement in all 8 units, this can range between PP (Double Pass) and D*D* (Double Distinction*).
You will be assessed through a range of assignment tasks, a large number of which will involve creation of products. These will be assessed against criteria to decide whether the work produced is of pass, merit or distinction level. At the end of the year you will be awarded a qualification grade based upon your achievement in all 8 units, this can range between PP (Double Pass) and D*D* (Double Distinction*).
What financial support is on offer?
This course is free for anyone aged 16 – 18. If you are outside this age group please contact 01782 254188.
College Maintenance Allowance (CMA): Anyone with a household income under ÂŁ23,000 can receive up to ÂŁ20 per week financial support to help pay for travel and meals and meet the costs of essential trips, books, stationery and equipment. The payments will be subject to full attendance on your course. A range of other financial support is available, depending on your personal circumstances. For more details visit www.nscg.ac.uk/finance
College Maintenance Allowance (CMA): Anyone with a household income under ÂŁ23,000 can receive up to ÂŁ20 per week financial support to help pay for travel and meals and meet the costs of essential trips, books, stationery and equipment. The payments will be subject to full attendance on your course. A range of other financial support is available, depending on your personal circumstances. For more details visit www.nscg.ac.uk/finance
What can I do next?
On completion of this course to the target grade of MM (Merit, Merit) level, you will be eligible to progress to a BTEC Extended Diploma in IT. This qualification will provide you with further experience of computing and provides an excellent point from which to launch your career or progress to university.
Course not right for you?
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