IT & Computing

BTEC Tech Award in Digital Information Technology

This course enables pupils to acquire and develop knowledge and technical skills related to data management, data interpretation, data presentation and data protection as part of their Key Stage 4 learning.

Students will develop key skills that prove their ability in digital information technology such as: project planning; designing and creating user interfaces; and presenting and interpreting data. Students will also come to understand the processes that underpin effective ways of working, such as project planning, the iterative design process, cyber security, virtual teams, and legal and ethical codes of conduct.

The qualification recognises the value of knowledge, learning skills, and vocational attributes. The qualification will broaden learners’ experience and understanding of the varied progression options available to them.

Course Components:

The Edexcel BTEC Tech Award in Digital Information Technology requires three component units to be completed. 

Component 1: Exploring User Interface Design Principles and Project Planning Techniques- 30%

Component 2: Collecting, Presenting and Interpreting Data – 30% Portfolio

Component 3: Effective Digital Working Practices- 40% is assessed through an external exam.

Course Content:

The Information Technology course has been designed to engage and enthuse young people with an interest in Information Technology and its use.

Component 1 covers areas such as interface design and development principles e.g. information boards and mobile applications.

Component 2 covers the area of data collection, presentation and interpreting. Pupils will design and produce software that will collect data from an external sources, such as the internet, and present it in a suitable form for its users to interpret.

Finally, Component 3 will explore how IT professionals work with digital solutions to integrate them into organisations and their activities. This will cover modern technologies, threats and legal issues.

What skills will pupils develop?

• Creative processes to design digital products and interfaces
• Project planning
• Cyber security
• System development for data collection and interpretation
• Effective digital work practices
• Technology in the workplace
• Business and Commercial awareness

What attributes will pupils need to be successful in this subject?

• Enthusiasm for ICT and Computing
• Positive attitude to learning
• Ability to meet deadlines
• Ability to work independently
• Abilty to take and act upon instructions

What career opportunities can this subject lead to?

This qualification provides a broad and solid foundation for further study of various aspects of creative computing, such as graphic design, web design and interactive media.
It supports progress to further study opportunities including A Levels in Computer Science. The qualification also enhances pupils' overall digital literacy, providing a solid foundation for a wide range of further study programmes and employment.

GCSE Computer Science

Course Content

This is an academically challenging specification which provides a good understanding of the fundamental principles of computing, and offers pupils the opportunity to work with real-world programming. Pupils will study: computer systems; networks and security; and the use of algorithms in computer programs. They will also evaluate the effectiveness of computer programs/solutions and the ethical, legal, cultural and environmental impact of computer technology in society today and in the future.

How will pupils be assessed?

There are two externally assessed examinations at the end of Year 11. 

What attributes will pupils need to be successful in this subject:

• An interest in computers and how they work.
• An interest in completing practical programming tasks.
• The ability to work independently both offline and online.
• Good analytical and problem solving skills.

Please note that this is an academically demanding course, most suitable for students who have a target grade of 6 or above in Maths, and/or an aptitude for Languages.