BTEC National Subsidiary Diploma in ICT What is BTEC ICT? A specialist, vocationally related qualification for those who have a clear vision for their future career or who want to progress to higher education. Why study BTEC ICT? BTECs are understood and recognised by a large number of organisations in the IT industry. They are developed to ensure they meet employer and student needs. What makes a successful BTEC ICT student? A student who has a practical approach to study and is disciplined and well organised. To study this course, what qualifications will I need and in which subjects? To study BTEC ICT you need a formal qualification in the subject (GCSE ICT or OCR National Certificate) and an interest in ICT. What is the structure of the course?

AS Modules A2 Modules

Unit 1: Communication and Employability Skills for IT The aims of this unit are to:

Understand the personal attributes valued by employers.

Understand the principles of effective communication.

Be able to use IT to communicate effectively.

Be able to address personal development needs.

Three Optional Units (to be chosen by the school) from:

Unit 9: Computer Networks.

Unit 10: Communication Technologies.

Unit 18: Database Design.

Unit 25: Maintaining Computer Systems.

Unit 28: Website Production.

Unit 29: Installing and Upgrading Software.

Unit 31: Computer Animation.

Unit 42: Spreadsheet Modelling. More units to be made available soon.

Unit 2: Computer Systems The aims of this unit are to:

Understand the components of computer systems.

Be able to recommend computer systems for a business purpose.

Be able to set up and maintain computer systems. One more unit from the A2 list is needed to complete the AS course. BTEC Level 3 Certificate is equivalent to one AS Level.

In order to complete each unit, you must achieve a set of outcomes. The assessment criteria address theory with practical exercises. The assessment is ongoing, so it allows students to analyse and improve their own performance through their course in much the same way as they would in the workplace. BTEC Level 3 Subsidiary Diploma is equivalent to one A Level

What opportunities are there for me to study beyond the classroom? BTECs are equivalent to A Levels and are highly valued by universities, further education colleges and employers alike. What kind of career does this qualification prepare me for? This course can lead to Higher Education on an HND or Degree in Computer Studies or in any of the following careers: Software Developer, Games Designer, Website Developer, Technician, Network Manager, Computer Systems Analyst, Programmer and many more!