Information Technology - Vocational Level 2Course Leader: Debbie Rawlings

Email: deborah.rawlings@qmc.ac.uk

Fact File• Level 2 course (4 GCSE equivalent)• Includes 1 week work experience placement• 1 year course allowing progression to a L3 course the following year

Course SummaryYou will gain knowledge of a range of software applications including Microsoft and Adobe products. You will cover subjects such as Database Modelling, Multimedia, Web Design, Spreadsheets and Computer Graphics as well as the mandatory units of Working in the IT Industry and Communicating in the IT Industry. You will also undertake one week of work experience where the aim will be to work in an IT related position to gain some experience of the industry.

Progression skills and opportunitiesThis subject can lead to a wide range of jobs that involve using computers. We also have links to many apprenticeships that may be of interest to our L2 students. A L3 will usually be required for entry to university. Progression onto the L3 course is obtained by gaining a merit at L2.

How is the course assessed?The course is assessed by means of a number of assignments. Each Unit may have several assignments to complete. A grade will be awarded for each unit depending on the quality of the work submitted. The possible grades are: P (Pass), M (Merit), D (Distinction) and D* (Distinction*)

What topics will I be studying?Unit 1 (M) Communicating in the IT industry Unit 9 Website DesignUnit 2 (M) Working in IT Unit 11 MultimediaUnit 23 Spreadsheet Modelling Unit 10 Computer GraphicsUnit 20 Database Systems (M = Mandatory)

How is the course assessed?The course involves no exams and is 100% coursework based. All units are internally assessed and then verified by an external moderator from the examining board. Assessment is based on the achievement of all the specified learning outcomes. You will complete a number of skills-based briefs which will enable you to provide evidence to show that you have met the grading criteria. Each unit will be awarded a pass, merit or distinction.

What topics will I be studying?• Introducing media and audiences• Photography for media products• Creation of a television advert• Planning and producing a media product• 2D games production• 2D games development

Will I need any specialist materials or equipment?You will require paper and pens and usual stationery required of a course but other materials will be covered in the course fees.

Progression skills and opportunitiesYou will develop your study skills enabling you to move on to a Level 3 Extended Diploma course. Work placement opportunities will also develop your employability enabling you to progress to the work place if you choose.• One week work placement built in towards the end of the first year.• British Film Institute trip.• Visiting professionals offering unit specific workshops.• Harry Potter - working studio/ behind the scenes.• Skills - soft and hard skills developed through written assessments, client based briefs, strict deadlines, independent study skills, time management, presentation, communication.

Art, Craft and Design - A LevelHead of Department: James Fraser-Murison

Email: james.fraser-murison@qmc.ac.uk

Fact File• For students planning a career in Art and Design, the A Level course will have the necessary breadth of work for entry onto a Degree or Foundation degree in Art and Design.• Some students study a one year full-time Art and Design Foundation course before progressing to degree level. A few students go directly into work related areas. Typical career options include fine art, illustration, textile design, interiors, fashion design, fashion promotion and three-dimensional design, including jewellery, costume and theatre.• Combines well with many other subjects at A level including other Art, Design or Media A levels.

Course SummaryArt, Craft & Design is a multi-disciplinary course which involves working with a wide variety of techniques and processes. In the first year, the course expands and develops students’ practical skills, knowledge and understanding of materials. Students will learn a wide variety of drawing, printmaking, craft and textile techniques and will create exciting contemporary artwork in two and three dimensions. This is deal if you want to explore processes and techniques from across the department.

During the second year the course seeks to build on the knowledge gained during the first year and develop the ability to work independently through sustained investigations, development of ideas and in depth analysis. Students will work on a variety of briefs but they will be more personally directed and in depth. The conclusion of the 2 year A level course will be for students to present two components of work in the form of a portfolio with an externally set assignment.

Specific entry requirementsIt is recommended that you have a grade 5 or above in an Art or relevant Technology subject. If this is not applicable, you should bring a small portfolio of work to your enrolment interview.

Being open to experimentation and to trying new things, as well as having a creative outlook and a willingness to work hard, is highly valued.