The IT solutions that businesses use in the modern world are made up of many different component parts. These parts can include PCs, PCs that are linked together to form a network, devices and wearable technologies that are attached to the PC or the network via the cloud and the internet. These business solutions are designed to help businesses to operate.
This course primarily covers PC systems and will give you knowledge and an understanding of computer systems and networks and their end users. There is a mixture of practical and theoretical work during which you will learn how to upgrade hardware and software. Alongside developing your skills you will also learn about what it means to work in the IT sector and the wide range of job opportunities on offer.
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What will I study?
The units you will study are likely to include:
Core Units:
- Communicating in the IT Industry
- Working in the IT Industry
Specialist Units:
- Computer Systems
- Software Installation and Upgrade
- Installing Computer Hardware
- Setting up an IT network
- Mobile Technologies
All units are subject to change and may be withdrawn.
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Who is this course for?
This course is ideal if you have an interest in developing skills in PC systems support and knowledge and understanding of computer systems and networks and their end users and wish to gain a Level 2 qualification in IT.
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How is the course assessed?
- Units are internally assessed
- Units are externally moderated through assignments
- All units are assessed with course work which is graded, and an overall grade for the qualification is awarded
- Grades awarded will be either Pass, Merit or Distinction.
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Your Study Programme
If you are aged 16-18, you will join a Study Programme. We will make sure you are working at the right level on your core qualification and are challenged to achieve the highest level of qualification you can. All students will continue to improve their maths and English and if you don't have a grade 4 (C) at GCSE, we will work with you towards achieving that goal (subject to specific entry requirements for particular courses). Work experience will be part of your study programme and complement your college study and prepare you for employment. You will also get involved in activities to help you develop life skills and to build your confidence so you can make progress in your career. Weekly timetables will include tutorial support which may comprise of full group activities or one to one sessions to discuss individual progress or support needs.
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Knowledge
You will develop a thorough knowledge and understanding of:
- knowledge of hardware components and the range of skills required to ensure the correct procedures and practices are followed when installing hardware components.
- The main features and benefits of an IT network in an organisation.
- features and uses of different mobile communication devices as well as how businesses use mobile communication and the benefits and drawbacks of this.
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Skills
You will have the ability to:
- Install and configure basic hardware system components, networks and devices
- set up and test mobile communication devices and how to make improvements to the set up of these devices
- Follow information security procedures.
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Behaviours
What is required?
- Manage own time to meet deadlines and Manage stakeholder expectations
- Work independently and take responsibility for own actions within a given job role
- Work with a range of internal and external customers.
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General info
Trips - approximately £35 and this is payable at enrolment in September. You will be informed of exact costs in your induction packs which will be posted out to you in August.
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Progression and Career Opportunities
After successful completion of this course you may want to consider progressing onto one of the following courses offer at Northampton College:
- Level 3 T Level in Digital Support Services
- Level 3 T Level in Digital Production, Design and Development
To progress onto either of the courses above you need to achieve a Merit Grade and GCSE Mathematics at Grade 5 and GCSE English at Grade 5.
With further training or study, students go into careers such as:
- Technical Support Technician
- Junior Help Desk Person
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Entry Requirements for new students
4 GCSEs at Grade 3 or above
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Admissions Process
We recommend that you attend one of our exciting open events so that you can look around the department, the college and meet the tutors. You are welcome to do this before or after you apply. These events have proved very successful in ensuring students and their families see the best of what the college has to offer such as our inspirational teaching areas, teachers, library facilities and places to eat.
Once you have applied our experienced Enrolment Team will consider your application carefully and will let you know, by email, if the College would like to make you a conditional offer based on you meeting the specified entry requirements. If your predicted grades or career aims suggest that an alternative subject area or course level would be more appropriate for you at this stage, we will contact you either by telephone, email or text. If you have told us that you have some additional support needs we will contact you to find out more so that we can help you.
