Free Level 3 Information Technology Course in Birmingham. Classes run at Fairfax Academy. You'll need at least five GCSEs at grades 4 to 9, including English and Maths, to join. This two-year, full-time information technology qualification covers data management, programming, digital communication, and cybersecurity. It combines practical skills with theoretical understanding and carries the same UCAS points as one A level, supporting applications to university or higher-level technical training.
Who this course is for
If you are interested in technology, problem-solving and how digital systems shape the modern world, this course is for you. It’s ideal for students considering careers in computing, cybersecurity, software development, or digital design. The course combines practical skills with theoretical understanding, allowing you to develop competence in areas such as data management, programming and digital communication. Equivalent to one A level, it also provides transferable skills such as logical thinking, creativity, and project management, all of which are highly valued across a wide range of industries and higher education courses.
Entry requirements
Applicants will need to have a minimum of 5 grades 9-4 GCSE’s including English and Mathematics. Internal applicants who meet the minimum academic entrance requirements will be offered a place automatically (subject to availability of courses). All successful applicants will be required to sign a sixth form code of conduct in recognition of the Academy’s expectations of sixth form students in terms of their behaviour, punctuality and attendance.
What you will learn
You'll develop practical programming skills and apply them to real problems.
You'll study data management and how digital systems store and process information.
You'll explore cybersecurity principles and how organisations protect digital assets.
You'll learn about digital communication tools and how they support modern businesses.
You'll build logical thinking and problem-solving skills applied to computing contexts.
You'll gain an understanding of software development processes and digital design.
How you will learn
The BTEC National Extended Certificate uses a mix of internally assessed assignments and externally assessed exams. Classroom-based learning at Fairfax Academy combines taught sessions with project work. You'll complete assignments that demonstrate your skills in each subject area, alongside timed assessments set and marked by Pearson Edexcel. The course is delivered full-time over two years with daytime attendance.
What you will need to bring
The centre will provide most materials. Fairfax Academy will confirm anything else you need before you start.
Where next
Jobs you could do
IT support technician: troubleshoot hardware, software, and network issues
Junior software developer: write and test code for applications and systems
Cybersecurity analyst: monitor and protect digital systems from threats
Data analyst: interpret and present data to support business decisions
Digital designer: create digital content and user interfaces
Network administrator: manage and maintain computer networks
IT technician: support day-to-day technology operations in organisations
What you could study next
Pearson Edexcel BTEC Higher National Certificate (HNC) in Computing (Level 4): a natural next step if you want to specialise further before or instead of a full degree.
BSc in Computer Science, Cybersecurity, or Software Engineering (Level 6): most universities accept the BTEC National Extended Certificate alongside other qualifications for degree entry.
Level 3 CompTIA or Cisco certifications: industry-recognised technical credentials that complement academic study for roles in networking or cybersecurity.
