Level 3 Information Technology Course in Barnet for 16 to 18 Year Olds

CostFree for 16 to 18 year olds
Duration18 months
LevelLevel 3
DeliveryClassroom based
Start1 Sep 2027
Study modeFull-time
AttendanceDaytime
Awarding bodyPearson Edexcel awarding body

A sixth-form course for 16 to 18 year olds. Aged 19 or over? See IT Courses in Barnet.

About this course

Free Level 3 Information Technology Course in Barnet. Classes run at The Compton School. This full-time daytime course covers how computers and digital systems are used in the real world, from networks and data to cybersecurity and digital communication. You do not need coding experience. The course takes 18 months and supports progression to higher education. An interest in computers is expected, and a GCSE in IT, Computer Science, English, or Maths is recommended but not required. You'll sit external assessments alongside coursework-based units.

Who this course is for

Anyone that is interested in computers but is not ready to learn coding. Students that can work independently on large projects. Students that are interested in a future in IT or Computer Science.

Entry requirements

It is important to have an interest in computers and how they can be used effectively in society as this is essentially what we will be learning throughout the course. Although technical understanding will be taught from first principals, it is beneficial to have an IT or Computer Science GCSE equivalent qualification. A low GCSE pass at English and Maths is recommended for this course.

What you will learn

  • You'll explore how digital systems and networks function in organisations.
  • You'll study cybersecurity principles and how to protect data and systems.
  • You'll examine how businesses use IT to solve problems and improve processes.
  • You'll develop skills in planning and managing large independent IT projects.
  • You'll learn about emerging technologies and their impact on society.
  • You'll practise communicating technical ideas clearly in written and visual formats.

How you will learn

You'll learn through classroom-based lessons at The Compton School, combining teacher-led sessions with independent project work. Assessment includes externally set and marked exams alongside internally assessed assignments and projects. The qualification has 360 guided learning hours. You'll need to manage your time well, as some units involve extended independent tasks completed over several weeks.

What you will need to bring

The centre will provide most materials. The Compton School will confirm anything else you need before you start.

Where next

Jobs you could do

  • IT support technician: troubleshoot hardware and software for organisations
  • Junior systems administrator: maintain networks and user accounts
  • Digital communications assistant: manage content and digital platforms
  • Data entry and database administrator: organise and maintain data systems
  • IT helpdesk analyst: first-line technical support for staff or customers
  • Junior cybersecurity analyst: monitor systems and flag security issues

What you could study next

This level 3 information technology qualification supports entry to higher education. You could progress to a degree in Computer Science, Information Technology, or Cybersecurity at university. Alternatively, a Level 4 or Level 5 Higher National Certificate (HNC or HND) in Computing or IT offers a more applied route. Professional certifications such as CompTIA A+ or Microsoft qualifications can also complement this foundation for those moving directly into work.

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