This course is designed for students who are interested in a future within the Computing and IT industry and also want to learn the skills and techniques to express themselves creatively through technology. If you like working with computers, enjoy solving problems and lots of hands-on practical work then this course is for you. You will learn how to create websites, develop games, and database solutions. You will also develop practical skills in computer hardware and networking alongside the fundamentals of cybersecurity.
You will study hardware and software, managing communication and the design and development of IT solutions. The most commonly chosen optional units allow students to explore: Games design and development, Website design and development, 3D graphics and Digital Animation.
A minimum of five GCSE subjects at grade 4 or above, including English and Mathematics are recommended for entry onto the course. Although some students might have achieved a GCSE in IT (or Level 2 equivalent), the BTEC course does not assume that an IT qualification has previously been achieved.
Assessment is spread over 8 units, of which 6 are mandatory ( IT systems, Databases, Social Media, Programming, Project management and Cybersecurity) and 2 are optional (from a choice of 14).
Three of the units are written examinations that are externally marked.
All other units are covered by the production of a portfolio of evidence demonstrating research, knowledge and skills application. Each submitted unit is assessed and awarded points. The accumulation of points translates into TWO overall grades of Pass, Merit, Distinction or Distinction* (equivalent to A* at A level). This course is worth 2 A level equivalents and attracts the same UCAS tariff points for entry into university or apprenticeships.
The course is ideal for those who love working with computers, having an appreciation of a variety of IT platforms, and a willingness to work hard and practice skills are all that is required.
The Department of Digital and Creative Technology (DCT) comprises two dedicated, fully equipped IT/Computing rooms, a workshop and an office within the College main building. The rooms are spacious and extremely well resourced – with pcs and Macs, games and animation technologies, up-to-date business and creative design packages. The pcs are all connected to the College network, which provides access to the Internet, and our Virtual Learning Environment (Godalming Online). The software includes Visual Studio, Unity, GameMake, Adobe suite, Blender, etc.
The department boasts its own dedicated technician who will be ready to assist students with a wide variety of equipment such as email scanners, colour laser printers, 3D printing, digital cameras, graphics tablets and webcams. Students are provided with their own secure IT storage and email account.
The workshop is available throughout the course, but particularly supports the technical units and 3D modelling. 3D modelling in particular can be used to produce some game characters/environments.
The course also provides the opportunity for ‘on-the-job’ training via a week of work experience in the first year. Students independently select their work placement.
Within the rapidly expanding Computer Games industry there are employment opportunities both locally and worldwide. Alongside this industry growth, we are witnessing an ever-expanding range of computer games related degrees and apprenticeships. These will extend your understanding and operation of the games industry.
In many cases, IT-based degree courses are combined with another subject to take advantage of the specialised industries that exploit the use of IT.
NB. The BTEC Level 3 Diploma in IT is the equivalent of TWO A levels. It is important to note that this course is enrolled as a 2-year course, with work experience.