Computing Level 2

View The Isle of Wight College's standard entry requirements for full-time college courses (depending on the level of the course to be studied).

Applicants should have four GCSEs at grade 3 or above (formerly grade D), including English and Mathematics.

Students progressing from another course should have achieved a Level 1 qualification with at least a Merit profile.

This course is designed for learners following a full-time further education pathway and who are prepared for structured, timetabled study. Applicants should have an interest in digital technology, creativity and problem-solving. Individual circumstances may be considered at interview.

This course is ideal for learners who are interested in computers, technology and how digital systems work. It is particularly suited to students who enjoy practical problem-solving and want to develop skills in areas such as programming, cybersecurity, networking, databases, websites and technical support.

The course provides a practical route into the digital and IT sector and is well suited to learners who prefer completing hands-on projects and assignments rather than formal examinations. It is also an excellent stepping stone towards further study at Level 3 or progression into an apprenticeship or entry-level employment.

Learners will develop practical technical skills across a range of computing and IT areas, including programming, networks, cybersecurity, databases, web development and technical support. Throughout the course, you will design, create, configure, test and troubleshoot digital systems while developing problem-solving, communication and project skills.

Units Covered

• Cybersecurity
  • Explore cybersecurity threats and vulnerabilities and learn how individuals, organisations, systems and data can be protected.
• Database Design and Development
  • Design and develop relational databases to store and manage information, work with data and test completed solutions.
• Digital Skills Career Progression
  • Explore careers in digital and IT, the skills and behaviours employers value, and opportunities for further study and employment.
• Digital Skills Project
  • Plan and complete your own digital project, from researching ideas and developing a plan through to producing, presenting and evaluating the outcome.
• Technical Support
  • Develop practical support skills by investigating hardware and software issues, diagnosing problems and identifying appropriate solutions.
• Networking
  • Explore how computer networks operate and learn about network components, topologies and protocols before configuring and troubleshooting a secure network.
• Website Design and Development
  • Plan, design and develop a website using technologies such as HTML and CSS while considering usability, accessibility and responsive design.
• Computer Programming
  • Learn programming principles and develop a program using a text-based language, including designing, coding, debugging and testing your solution.

Learning is practical and project-based. You will:

• Complete hands-on activities using industry-relevant software, tools and technologies
• Design and develop programs, websites, databases and other digital solutions
• Configure and troubleshoot computer networks and IT systems
• Investigate cybersecurity threats and methods of protecting systems and data
• Work independently and collaboratively on practical projects
• Develop solutions in response to realistic scenarios and client briefs
• Test, review and improve the digital products and systems you create
• Build a portfolio of evidence rather than sit formal examinations
• Develop technical, problem-solving, communication and employability skills

Teaching combines demonstrations, practical workshops, guided activities, independent project work and industry-focused scenarios.

This Level 2 qualification is designed to support progression to higher-level study or employment where digital and IT knowledge and skills are required.

Level 3 Courses:

• T Level Digital Software Development

Depending on your interests and future qualifications, the skills developed on the course can support progression towards areas such as:

• Software and application development
• Cybersecurity
• IT and technical support
• Networking and infrastructure
• Web development
• Database development and administration
• Digital support roles
• IT apprenticeships

The course provides a broad technical foundation, allowing you to experience several areas of computing before deciding which area you would like to specialise in at Level 3 or through an apprenticeship.

There may be a cost for purchasing equipment or uniform for this course. Find out about financial support available.