IT @ Work - Introductory Diploma

An interest in Information Technology, a suitable school reference, plus interview. Minimum age 16 years

An interest in Information Technology, pluse 2 GCSEs (E-G), or Certificate in Skills for Working Life, a reference from your current school or college and a range of relevant assessments at interview. Minimum age 16 years.

This is a one-year course designed to encourage you to develop the personal skills and technical knowledge needed for work in the computing industry. The programme of study is practical “hands on” study and covers the subjects related to the computer industry and the world of work. The course will act as a lead into the BTEC First Diploma course, for students who wish to advance their subject knowledge.

Detailed breakdown of course/programme:

The course covers a wide range of IT skills including a selection from below:

Starting work in the IT industry - Explore the variety of jobs available in the IT sector and understand what skills are required for these jobs. It is important that students are aware of the types of IT jobs that are available.

Working in the IT industry - In this unit you look at what it means to be at work in the IT sector. You will find out more about what it’s like being at work. This will include looking at what the job terms and conditions are.

Developing skills in IT - In this unit you will learn to use the basic functions of a computer and to understand its operating system in a business context.

Personal effectiveness - This unit offers you the opportunity to explore your own potential by carrying out an audit of your skills related to the job market of the IT sector.

Financial Management - This unit is designed to provide you with the knowledge and confidence to manage your money by looking at how money is earned and developing personal budgeting skills.

PC Systems - In this unit you will learn how a PC system works. You will learn about the purpose of each piece of equipment and how to connect the various pieces together and ensure that they are in working order.

Using the Internet - You will learn how to use the Internet and will explore the moral and ethical issues surrounding the use of the Internet. You will also learn how to upload and download the Internet files.

IT Applications - You will learn how to use IT applications including Microsoft Office applications, such as word processing, spreadsheets and presentation software, conventional layout procedures and how to integrate images, charts and graphs into documents.

Digital Devices - You will learn how to use a range of current digital devices. These devices are being used in business and industry to record sound, take images and store them.

Continuous assessment and portfolio.

BTEC First Diploma for it Practitioners, possibly leading to a career in PC support or hardware support.