Free Level 3 IT Course in Chatteris

CostFREE
Duration2 years
LevelLevel 3
DeliveryClassroom based
Start4 Sep 2026
Study modeFull-time
AttendanceDaytime
Awarding bodyOCR awarding body

About this course

Free Cambridge Technical Extended Certificate in IT in Chatteris. Classes run at Cromwell Community College, full-time over two years.

You'll study IT in a practical, work-focused way. The course covers networking, systems, programming, digital communications, and IT project management. You'll work independently and in teams, building the kind of hands-on skills employers look for. You'll need at least five GCSEs at grade 4 or above to apply.

You'll finish with a Level 3 Extended Certificate in IT from OCR.

Who this course is for

Cambridge Technicals are vocational qualifications that are designed to give you a work-focused alternative to A Levels. They've been designed to give you opportunities to demonstrate and develop the practical application of knowledge and understanding in the areas of work that appeal to you. This will enable you to develop your research skills as you work, both independently and with colleagues, to progress through your qualifications. The assessment for the qualifications is task-based, so you won't need to take exams to achieve Cambridge Technicals qualifications.

Entry requirements

Students who want to study a vocational subject should preferably have a minimum of 5 GCSE's grade 4

What you will learn

  • You'll explore how computer networks are set up and managed.
  • You'll develop programming and software development skills.
  • You'll learn how IT systems support businesses and organisations.
  • You'll practise digital communications and online collaboration.
  • You'll plan and carry out IT projects from start to finish.
  • You'll build research skills through task-based assignments.
  • You'll understand cybersecurity principles and data protection.

How you will learn

Learning is classroom-based and task-driven. You'll complete assignments and practical projects that reflect real IT work. Assessment is largely coursework-based, with tasks designed to show how you apply your knowledge. Some units may include external assessment set by OCR. You'll work both independently and alongside others throughout the course.

What you will need to bring

The centre will provide most materials. Cromwell Community College will confirm anything else you need before you start.

Where next

Jobs you could do

  • IT support technician, helps users fix hardware and software problems.
  • Junior IT assistant, supports a team with day-to-day technical tasks.
  • IT apprentice, earns while training toward a higher IT qualification.
  • Help desk analyst, handles technical queries for staff or customers.
  • Network support assistant, helps maintain an organisation's IT systems.

What you could study next

  • Level 3 IT Apprenticeship, combines work and study toward a higher technical standard.
  • HNC in Computing or IT, a higher education qualification for those wanting to go further.
  • Level 4 IT Qualification, builds specialist knowledge in areas like networking or cybersecurity.
  • A university degree in Computer Science or Information Technology, for those aiming toward senior technical or developer roles.

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