Entry requirements
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- Six GCSEs 9-4 (or A*-C)
- Two from English, Maths OR Science
- Two at least grade 6
BTEC Extended Certificate IT (1 A Level equivalent) - overview
BTEC Extended Certificate in IT is suitable for students who are interested in computers and how they are used. The course covers a range of subjects and is assessed by both coursework and exam components . Some assignments require extended writing about theoretical topics while others involve learning practical skills such spreadsheets and databases.
Exam board: PEARSON
Components
This course has four units:
- Spreadsheets: learning how to create and use spreadsheets
- Social Media and business: looking at how Facebook, Instagram and other social media sites are used
- Databases: designing and creating relational databases
- IT systems: a broad ranging theory unit covering all sorts of topics related to how computers work, how they are used and their impact on society.
Assessment methods:
Unit 1: Written exam 2 hours (33.3%)
Unit 3: Practical exam 5 hours (25%)
Two coursework units (42%)
Skills
You will develop a wide range of skills. You learn how to use popular software such as MS Excel and MS Access confidently to solve problems, the basics of building a computer and installing software, carry out research and write extended reports on a range of topics.
Careers / destinations
You can progress to employment or apprenticeship, or you can progress to higher education and continue with degree studies in the same, or related vocational area.
Some students go on to study information systems at university. However many IT students choose the course to complement their other subjects. IT is useful for teaching, for scientists, for law, for humanities, business and accounting
Frequently Asked Questions
What courses can I study alongside this subject?
This course takes up 1 of your options as it is equivalent to 1 A level, therefore, you can study up to 2 subjects alongside this one. It is up to you.
What makes Loreto’s computing department unique?
Enthusiastic and committed staff with a range of experience in education and industry
Excellent computer suites
Access to computers in the study centres outside of lesson time