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The Pearson BTEC Level 3 National Foundation Diploma in Information Technology is designed for post-16 learners wishing to go on to further or higher level of study or directly into employment or apprenticeship.

The Foundation Diploma program of 6 units benefits from strong links with local employers and opportunities to develop a range of IT skills whilst being involved with IT projects.

Carlisle College has developed a unique and personalised programme of study that is one or two years in duration. During this time, learners will study a range of topics and apply these in the exceptionally well resourced and purpose-built computing classrooms and Network Labs. Blending an exciting and thoroughly engaging mix of both theoretical and practical based studies, this programme provides the opportunity for all learners holding a Level 2 and upwards qualification in Computing or Information Technology, to achieve Level 3 qualifications in Information Technology here at Carlisle College. This provides any learner with significant academic progression. The wide range of topics studied over 1-2 years will allow you to experience the full breadth of the Computing industry, helping you to identify areas of interest and in make secure decisions for your future specialism, whether within employment directly from study or whilst moving into higher level education at a university of your choice. In addition to these advanced level studies, learners will be given opportunities to study for an industry grade and sector recognised Technical Level qualification. This will develop competencies for anyone looking to pursue a career as an IT support technician, helpdesk technician or software developer. This, coupled with regular work placement in industry, will provide you with an enviable springboard to a successful career.

Students will learn;

• Information Technology Systems
• IT Project Management
• Data Modelling
• Creating Systems to Manage Information
• Website Development
• Programming

A Foundation Diploma in Information Technology, developing key skills and knowledge through practical learning across all aspects of Information Technology and offering a wide range of possible destinations such as website development, IT system support, IT project management as well as progression onto higher level study, the Extended Diploma in Information Technology and higher education courses.

Functional Skills, or GCSE in Maths and English.

Hands on work is a key part of this qualification giving you plenty of opportunities to implement your theory, and work with employers and industry-based scenarios to build your confidence within the Information Technology industry. You will learn by completing practical assignments, supported self-study assignments, presentations and discussions.

Hands on work is a key part of this qualification giving you plenty of opportunities to implement your theory, and work with employers and industry-based scenarios to build your confidence within the Information Technology industry. You will learn by completing practical assignments, supported self-study assignments, presentations and discussions.

• 5 GCSEs at grades 9-4 (A*-C), including Maths and English,
• Achievement at Level 1/2 in Computing / IT; the ‘study pathway’ structure will enable you to consolidate Level 2 skills, knowledge and understanding of science within Semester 1,
• or
• Level 2 vocational qualification at Merit or Distinction,
• and
• Level 2 qualifications in maths and English,
• or
• Scottish equivalent.
• Please note that entry requirements and course offer can be subject to change at any time.

Subject to successfully completing one of the individual Year 1 pathway qualifications listed above, students can confidently progress onto the Extended Diploma in Applied Science programme in Year 2.

On completion of this programme students may then choose to progress to an Extended Diploma in Information Technology, or depending on their existing qualifications and UCAS points may progress directly onto a Higher Education course (University Level Study), either locally at Carlisle College (with HE courses up to Level 6 in Applied Computing), or further afield in Computing, or a related subject area.

Some students choose to gain employment in a computing / IT related field such as a Helpdesk Technician, or IT support technician or a junior role in the IT industry.

Whatever route you take we are here to advise and support you.

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