Why choose Cambridge Technicals in IT?

At Plumstead Manor 6th form pupils are given the opportunity to study a number of different disciplines as well as experience industry practice first hand.  Our Level 3 Cambridge Technicals in IT offer specialist pathways in IT Infrastructure Technician, Emerging Digital Technology Practitioner, Application Developer, and Data Analyst. We ensure pupils digital literacy enables them to use, and express themselves and develop their ideas through, information and communication technology, leaving at a level suitable for both the world of work, further study and as active participants in a digital world.

You may need to follow one of 2 pathways which are:

1. Extended certificate in IT

• Fundamentals of IT
• Global Information
• Cyber security
• Project management
• Product development

2. Introductory Diploma in IT (Application Developer pathway - Including IT based Work experience)

• Fundamentals of IT
• Global Information
• Application Design
• Project management
• Product development

 Fundamentals of IT: Unit 1

A sound understanding of IT technologies and practices is essential for IT professionals. Information learnt in this unit will provide a solid foundation in the fundamentals of hardware, networks, software, the ethical use of computers and how business uses IT.

Global Information: Unit 2

The purpose of this unit is to demonstrate the uses of information in the public domain, globally, in the cloud and across the internet, by individuals and organisations. You will discover that good management of both data and information is essential, and that it can give any organisation a competitive edge. This unit will provide you with a greater understanding of how organisations use information sources both internally and externally and the types of information you will

Encounter.

Cyber security: Unit 3

The need for secure digital systems is more crucial than ever before. We rely on computerised systems and networks to collect, process, store and transfer vast amounts of data and to control critical systems such as water and power supplies. Business and e-commerce can be undertaken twenty four hours a day, seven days a week and telecommunications enable us to keep in touch with family and friends and collaborate with colleagues at any time. Mobile devices offer us freedom and flexibility of where and how we learn and work. However, for all the advantages that these systems offer us, some people have found ways to exploit them and this poses a threat to our safety and security in the real world, as much as in the cyber world. To deal with this problem the cyber security industry is expanding at a rapid rate.

Application Design: Unit 6

The world is increasingly reliant on applications that help individuals, businesses and organisations achieve specific activities or purposes. In this unit you will explore potential ideas for a new application and develop the fundamental design for it. You will then develop the designs for an application and how users will interact with it. The application that you design can be for any sector and for any purpose. You will have the opportunity to present your ideas, prototype them, and gain feedback before refining your design. Besides the technical knowledge that you will gain about designing an application, you will also learn key transferable skills such as liaising with clients, questioning people effectively to gain the information you need to develop successful designs, and presenting your ideas to an audience and getting feedback from them.

Project management: Unit 8

This unit will provide you with the opportunity to understand and use various project planning skills and techniques, thereby enabling you to become more effective in the workplace. The key to any project being a success is the planning that takes place.

Product development: Unit 9

The purpose of this unit is to prepare you to undertake product development activities. You will learn about different product design methodologies and the role of the product development life cycle. In addition, you will discover the factors that influence product developments.

Click here for out more information about each unit below:

 Entry requirements

There are no formal entry requirements for this qualification. However it would be advantageous if learners have studied similar unit content at Level 2. It is recommended that learners have a grade 4/grade C or above in maths and English GCSEs.

Qualification structure

5 units consisting of 2 mandatory examined units and 3 coursework units.

Assessment method/model

Units 1 and 2 are assessed by exam and marked by the exam board

All the other units will be internally assessed by centre staff and moderated by staff at PMS.

Grading

The course is equivalent to an A Level and is graded at:

Pass (C), Merit (B), Distinction (A) and Distinction * (A*)

Further information can be found at the following websites