Overview

Information Technology (IT) involves the use of computers widely in industry and commerce. The UK is one of the leading digital nations, and its economy has the highest percentage of GDP involved in the digital economy in Europe. The National Institute for Economic and Social Research (NIESR) shows that the digital economy includes almost 270,000 UK digital companies, and 11% of all jobs.

BTECs embody a fundamentally learner-centred approach to the curriculum, with a flexible, unit-based structure and knowledge applied in project-based assignments. Students perform independent research alongside the case studies provided, focusing on the holistic development of the practical, interpersonal and thinking skills required for success in employment and Higher Education.

This course uses a combination of assessment styles to give students the confidence to apply their knowledge, succeed in the workplace, and have the study skills for lifelong learning. The range of vocational assessments, both practical and written, means students can show case their learning and achievements when they take their next step, whether that’s supporting applications to Higher Education courses or potential employers.

KS5 Intent Statement

To provide a successful curriculum suited to our student intake profile, balancing core learning with guided, differentiated pathways for sub-groups or individuals which inspire and engage students whilst successfully preparing them for progression at age 18 and future life as learners, employers and citizens.
To give the students a real world understanding of the use of technology in the wider world and to provide a theoretical level of knowledge in the history and inner workings of key aspects of the computer. To cultivate creative and dynamic problem solvers, both when using technology and in general, by developing the key skills of computational thinking.
To give students a deep understanding and engage learners to enhance their awareness of current affairs and key Economic and Business topics to enrich and develop their cultural capital and prepare them for a rapidly changing external environment. To equip students with the analytical and evaluative skills required to form judgments and opinions about why key decisions are taken by the government and the impact on the world around us. We want learners to demonstrate that they can identify and use effectively, in an integrated way, an appropriate selection of skills, techniques, concepts, theories and knowledge to help them prepare for progression to employment, apprentices and further education.

Qualification Details

Exam Board: Edexcel Pearson National Extended Certificate
Qualification Title: IT - BTEC Level 3 National Extended Certificate
Qualification Specification Code:
Qualification Webpage: Click here to visit the Edexcel Pearson National Extended Certificate webpage for the specification.

Entry Requirements

Standard Sixth Form entry requirements

What will I study in this qualification?

Possible Career Paths

The BTEC qualification, when studied alongside other Level 3 qualifications, is aimed at progression to Higher Education. However, it also enables students to develop the knowledge and skills needed for entry level roles related to IT, including vocational apprenticeship roles and trainee/entry level roles, such as a Social Media Specialist, Content Developer, Web Developer or Business Analyst.

For students wanting to study for an IT-related degree, opportunities would include Undergraduate courses in Computer Arts, Software Development for Animation, Website Development, Games Design and Development and more.