Level 3 BTEC Diploma in IT (Network)

A BTEC Diploma at Level 3 is a nationally recognised qualification, equivalent to two A Levels, combining practical and theoretical study. It provides the underpinning knowledge, understanding and skills to progress successfully in the workplace and also provides a firm basis for higher education.

Highbury College offers a variety of Level 3 BTEC Diplomas providing a wide range of opportunities to learn about the IT Sector. The rapid growth in Local Area Network and Internet usage has led to a significant shift in the overall range of skills required in providing for the successful implementation and use of IT.

This programme is concerned with supporting the business IT infrastructure that is required to run the software systems used to meet business and organisational needs. In terms of the main areas of IT support, it centres on the network infrastructure and client-server system components required to meet business needs. Students focus upon the skills necessary for the design, deployment and support of such infrastructures. You should choose this programme if you are interested in computer and networking technologies as it provides valuable hands-on skills in a variety of areas including setting up computer networks, configuring switches and routers, all aspects of computer hardware and software including networking and IT support.

Parallel to this specific path, students will study the broader aspects of IT, including essential hardware and software maintenance skills, the nature and characteristics of commonly available operating systems and web development.

Students work on high spec computers using current operating systems, office applications and code using recognised standards. Students will benefit from the opportunity to download and install their own fully licenced copies of Microsoft software, all of which is provided free of charge thanks to our membership of the Microsoft Developer Network Academic Alliance (MSDNAA).
Level 3 BTEC Diploma in IT (Networking & Systems Support), which is equivalent to two A Levels.
The philosophy behind vocational programmes is to encourage student centred learning. You are encouraged to carry out your own research within a supportive and constructive teaching framework. Initiative, flexibility and a consistent approach to producing work in-class and during private study time is emphasised. The programme is assessed by a range of methods, including project work, role-play, oral presentations, case studies, in-class assignments and coursework. All units for the Diploma must be completed to either Merit or Distinction standard in order to proceed to the second year Level 3 Extended Diploma in IT (Networking & System Support). To be successful it will be necessary for you to undertake a significant amount of private study to meet the demands of the programme.

All assessments are criterion referenced, based on the achievement of specified learning outcomes. Each unit within the qualification has specified assessment and grading criteria which are used to grade your work. A summative unit grade can be awarded at pass, merit or distinction but: To achieve a 'pass' you must achieve all of the pass criteria; To achieve a 'merit' you must achieve all of the pass and merit criteria; To achieve a 'distinction' you must achieve all of the pass, merit and distinction criteria.