Free Level 3 IT Course in Penzance. Classes run at Penwith College. You'll study a broad computing curriculum over two years, covering areas including games design, cyber security, and programming. To enrol, you'll need four GCSEs at Grade 4 or above, including at least one in Maths or English, and you'll attend an interview as part of the application. This level 3 it qualification suits anyone confident they want to work in computing but still exploring which direction to take.
Who this course is for
This dynamic course allows you to study a broad computing curriculum, including games design, cyber security, and programming. Perfect for students who are unsure which area of computing they wish to pursue a career in, but who are confident it will be in a computing discipline.
If you enjoy learning about Computers and Information Technology, then the Extended National Diploma in Information Technology will be of great interest to you. This new course has been completely revamped to cover the very latest subjects in Information Technology. Building on your existing knowledge this course will stretch and challenge your IT knowledge and skills. Lessons take place in specialist IT rooms with networked PCs. Your lecturers will be specialists in their field who will teach you through a variety of demonstrations, lectures and by helping you undertake a variety of practical tasks. You will have access to hardware and networking lab facilities for the practical parts of the course.
Entry requirements
You must attend an interview where your experience and/or performance and attitude will be taken into account. You will need 4 GCSEs at Grade 4, at least one of these in Maths and/or English.
What you will learn
You'll study cyber security principles and how to protect systems and data.
You'll learn programming concepts and write code for real applications.
You'll explore games design, including the creative and technical sides of development.
You'll develop skills in networking, hardware, and IT systems.
You'll build knowledge across a broad computing curriculum to support a range of career directions.
How you will learn
You'll learn through classroom-based sessions at Penwith College, combining taught lessons with project work and assignments. The BTEC format means assessment is largely coursework-based rather than exams. You'll complete units assessed through assignments, practical tasks, and projects that build your portfolio of evidence across the two years.
What you will need to bring
The centre will provide most materials. Penwith College will confirm anything else you need before you start.
Where next
Jobs you could do
IT support technician: troubleshoot hardware and software for businesses
Junior software developer: write and test code for applications
Cyber security analyst: monitor systems and respond to threats
Games designer: work on the creative and technical side of game development
Network administrator: manage and maintain computer networks
IT systems administrator: keep business IT infrastructure running smoothly
Junior web developer: build and maintain websites and web applications
What you could study next
Degree in Computer Science or Software Engineering: the natural next step if you want to specialise and work toward senior technical roles.
Degree in Cyber Security: builds directly on the security content in this Course.
Higher National Certificate (HNC) or Higher National Diploma (HND) in Computing: a shorter higher-education route if you prefer to stay closer to practical, applied study.
Degree Apprenticeship in Digital Technology Solutions: combines paid work with a degree-level qualification.
