Free Level 3 IT Course in Widnes – Riverside College Kingsway Campus

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

About this course

Free Level 3 IT Course in Widnes. Classes run at Riverside College Kingsway Campus. You'll study full-time over two years, covering a broad range of computing and multimedia topics including game development and web development. The course builds skills across different areas of the digital sector, which is growing rapidly across the Liverpool City Region and beyond. Entry requires five or more GCSEs at grade 9 - 4, including English Language and Maths.

Who this course is for

Aimed at School Leavers. IT and Computing is an exciting and ever 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. You will study a range of subjects enabling you to develop highly sought-after skills throughout different Multimedia and Computing careers including Game Development, Web Development, Software Development, Cyber Security, Technical Support and Project Management. You will have the opportunity to use and develop for current technologies, such as considering the impact of Virtual Reality and see Computing in action through trips and guest speakers.

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 skills in game development and interactive media.
  • You'll learn web development techniques and digital design.
  • You'll study computing principles and how software systems work.
  • You'll explore multimedia production and creative digital content.
  • You'll build practical project skills used across IT and computing careers.
  • You'll gain an understanding of how digital technologies are applied in industry.

How you will learn

You'll learn through classroom-based sessions at Riverside College Kingsway Campus. The BTEC format means assessment is largely coursework and project-based, with assignments completed throughout the two years rather than end-of-course exams alone. You'll build a portfolio of work across different units, demonstrating your skills in practical, applied tasks.

What you will need to bring

The centre will provide most materials. Riverside College Kingsway Campus will confirm anything else you need before you start.

Where next

Jobs you could do

  • Web developer: build and maintain websites for businesses and organisations.
  • Junior software developer: write and test code for applications and systems.
  • IT support technician: troubleshoot hardware and software for users.
  • Game designer: create concepts and content for digital games.
  • Digital content creator: produce multimedia content across online platforms.
  • Network administrator: manage and maintain computer networks.
  • UX/UI designer: design digital interfaces and user experiences.

What you could study next

  • Degree in Computer Science or Software Engineering: a natural next step if you want to specialise further or move into higher-level development roles.
  • Degree in Games Design or Digital Media: builds directly on the creative computing skills from this course.
  • Higher National Certificate (HNC) or Higher National Diploma (HND) in IT: a shorter higher-education route into technical IT roles.
  • Professional certifications (such as CompTIA, Microsoft, or Cisco): industry-recognised credentials that strengthen your CV for specific technical careers.

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