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Free Level 3 Software Development Course in Bolton

CostFREE
Duration2 years
LevelLevel 3
DeliveryClassroom based
Start7 Sep 2026
Study modeFull-time
AttendanceDaytime
Awarding bodyOCR awarding body
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About this course

Free Level 3 Computing: Application Development Course in Bolton. Classes run at The Sixth Form Bolton. You'll need a minimum of two GCSEs at grade 5 and three at grade 4, including English Language and Maths, to join this full-time daytime course. Over two years, you'll learn to design and build software applications, covering fundamentals of application development, UX/UI design, and practical coding. Units include options in game development, website development, and software development. The course combines 40% external assessment with 60% coursework.

Who this course is for

The Pearson Level 3 AAQ BTEC National in Computing (Extended Certificate) is a future-ready qualification that develops both the theoretical and practical skills needed in modern computing. You will study programming, networks and cyber security, human-computer interaction, and the development of software solutions. The course provides the ideal balance between academic study and applied computing practice, preparing you for university-level study or entry into computing careers

Entry requirements

Students studying three A Levels and/or AAQs will be expected to have a minimum of two GCSEs at grade 5 and three at grade 4, including English Language and Mathematics.

Students studying four A Levels will be expected to have a minimum of six GCSEs at grade 7, 8 or 9 including English Language and Mathematics at grade 6 or above.

What you will learn

  • You'll design and build computer programs to solve real-world problems.
  • You'll learn the fundamentals of how software applications are conceived, planned, and function.
  • You'll translate designs into working software and test it against requirements.
  • You'll explore UX and UI design principles to create accessible, user-focused applications.
  • You'll develop logical thinking and problem-solving skills applied to software development.
  • You'll choose optional units from areas including game development, website development, immersive technology, and software development.
  • You'll build project management and communication skills alongside your technical work.

How you will learn

You'll learn through classroom-based study, practical assignments, and coursework based on real-world scenarios. Two core units, Fundamentals of Application Development and Developing Application Software, are each assessed by a 1 hour 15 minute exam. Coursework units are assessed by teachers and moderated by OCR. You can resubmit coursework once and resit exams twice. Assessment is split 40% external and 60% coursework.

What you will need to bring

The centre will provide most materials. The Sixth Form Bolton will confirm anything else you need before you start.

Where next

Jobs you could do

  • Software developer: write and test code for applications and systems.
  • Junior web developer: build and maintain websites and web applications.
  • App developer: design and develop mobile or desktop applications.
  • UX/UI designer: create user-friendly interfaces for digital products.
  • Games developer: design and build interactive game software.
  • IT support technician: troubleshoot software and systems for organisations.

What you could study next

  • Computer Science degree (BSc): the most direct route into software engineering, data science, or systems development roles.
  • Software Engineering degree (BEng): focuses on large-scale software design and engineering practice.
  • Higher National Certificate (HNC) in Computing: a shorter higher education route if you want to move into work sooner.
  • Degree apprenticeship in Software Engineering: combine paid work with a full degree qualification.
Apply on bolton-sfc.ac.uk →
Apply now →

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