ICT Practitioners (Systems Support) BTEC National Diploma Level 3

Is this course for me?
This course will prepare you for work in computer networking,
computer user support and as a helpdesk technician.
What will I study?
This course is equivalent to three A levels. You will learn by
completing practical projects and assignments that are based on
realistic workplace solutions, activities and demands as well as
learning about networking and technical support in the computing
and information technology industry. In addition, during the second
year of study you will cover CISCO semester 1, 2 and 3, which means
when you have finished the course, you can choose whether to get a
full-time job straight away or go into work and continue with your
studies part time. The course is made up of 18 units, some of which
you may be exempt from if you have successfully completed a Cisco
or Microsoft accredited course.
Subjects:

• Communication and Employability Skills for IT
• Computer systems
• Information Systems
• Organisational System Security
• IT Technical Support
• IT Systems Trouble Shooting and Repair

These are optional subjects:

• IT Project
• IT Systems Analysis and Design
• Advanced Spreadsheets
• Mathematics for IT Practitioners
• Principles of Software Design & Development
• Event Driven Programming
• Network Management
• Networking Basics (Cisco CCNA1)
• Routers and Routing Basics (Cisco CCNA2)
• Switching Basics and Intermediate Routing (Cisco CCNA3)
• WAN Technologies (Cisco CCNA4)

What can I do next?
This can lead to further education at Lewisham College studying
an HND, Cisco or a Microsoft accredited course or you may wish to
continue your studies at university. Employment opportunities
include computer networking, computer user support, or becoming a
help desk technician.
This can lead to employment in:

• Computer Networking
• Computer User Support
• Help Desk Technician

What are the entry requirements?
You will need at least five GCSEs grades A-C, a Merit GNVQ
Intermediate or equivalent or to have successfully completed the
CIT pre-entry assessment. You may also need a reference from
previous academic courses.
How will I be assessed?
Assessment is in various ways including assignments, class work,
group work, phase tests, oral presentations, projects and formal
examinations. You will also have regular meetings with your
personal tutor to discuss your progress and to help plan your
studies. Additional support, help and guidance are also available
from the guidance team or from our Study Buddies.
What will it cost?
If you are under 19 and a home student, in most circumstances,
you don't pay any fees. However, you will need to find this out
when you apply.
Course fee:
£1350Exam fee:
£175
Please note: For courses of more than one year, the fees
stated apply to the first year only. These costs are for the
academic year 2009-2010. Costs for 2010-2011 will be available in
spring 2010.