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Free Level 3 IT Course in Widnes – Cronton Sixth Form College

CostFREE
Duration2 years
LevelLevel 3
DeliveryClassroom based
Start1 Sep 2026
Study modeFull-time
AttendanceDaytime
Awarding bodyPearson Edexcel awarding body
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About this course

Free Level 3 IT Course in Widnes. Classes run at Cronton Sixth Form College, full-time during the day. You'll need five or more GCSEs at grade 9 - 4, including English Language and Maths, to start at Level 3. The course runs over two years and covers the skills and knowledge employers and universities look for in IT and computing. Liverpool City Region has one of the fastest-growing digital sectors in the UK, and this level 3 IT qualification puts you in a strong position to move into it.

Who this course is for

Aimed at School Leavers. IT and Computing is an exciting and constantly evolving subject, with a job market that is expected to grow exponentially over the next 10 years, and with Liverpool City Region having the second fastest growing Digital and Creative sector in the UK, it is an exciting time to get involved in the subject. This course will prepare you to access these job roles and develop the skills that will allow you to access employment opportunities and new apprenticeships that have not even been invented yet. You will study a wide range of subjects enabling you to develop highly sought after skills in the IT and Computing industry. The course is a mixture of practical and theory activities which allow you as a student to develop an understanding of the topics covered. You will study 13 units which include: Programming, Cyber Security, Database Systems, Computer Games Development, 2D & 3D Graphics, Digital Animation, IT Technical Support and Using Social Media in Business. In your second year you will have the opportunity to take part in the implementation of a substantial project which could take on a focus from areas including; Cyber Security & Digital Forensics, Virtual Reality, Games Design & Development, Software Development, or Computer Network solutions. You will also have the opportunity to see IT in actions by taking part in different trips such as seeing how technology is used at Alton Towers and Disneyland Paris. You will also be invited to the largest game convention in UK, where you will have the opportunity to meet software developers and universities.

Entry requirements

Your GCSE results will determine the level you start at:

Level 3 - Five or more GCSEs at grade 9-4 including English Language and Maths

Level 2 - Four or more GCSEs at grade 9-3 including English Language and Maths

Level 1 - Four or more GCSEs at grade 9-2 including English Language and Maths

Specific grades are required in certain subjects. Find out about individual entry requirements within the course information on the college website or at your college interview.

What you will learn

  • You'll develop practical IT skills used across business, software, and digital environments.
  • You'll study how computer systems and networks are designed and managed.
  • You'll learn how data is stored, processed, and kept secure.
  • You'll explore software development principles and programming concepts.
  • You'll build project and problem-solving skills relevant to tech roles.
  • You'll understand how digital technology is applied in real organisations.

How you will learn

The BTEC National Extended Diploma is assessed through a mix of internally assessed assignments and externally assessed exams or tasks set by Pearson Edexcel. Classroom sessions at Cronton Sixth Form College combine taught content with project work. Internal units are assessed through coursework and portfolios; external units are assessed under timed conditions.

What you will need to bring

The centre will provide most materials. Cronton Sixth Form College 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 software developer - write and test code for applications
  • Network administrator - manage and maintain computer networks
  • Data analyst - interpret data to support business decisions
  • IT systems administrator - oversee day-to-day IT infrastructure
  • Digital apprentice - enter a higher or degree apprenticeship in tech
  • Web developer - build and maintain websites and web applications
  • Cybersecurity analyst - protect systems and data from threats

What you could study next

  • Degree in Computer Science, Software Engineering, or Cybersecurity - the BTEC National Extended Diploma meets entry requirements for many UK university courses in these subjects.
  • Higher or Degree Apprenticeship in Digital Technology - combine work with further study at Level 4, 5, or 6.
  • CompTIA or Cisco certifications - vendor qualifications that strengthen your profile for specific IT roles such as networking or security.
Apply on cronton.ac.uk →
Apply now →

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