Level 3 IT Course in Slough. Classes run at Slough and Langley College, full-time during the day. You'll need four GCSEs at grade 4 or above, including English and Maths, to enrol. The course runs for 35 weeks and covers information technology in depth, from software and systems to digital skills valued across the tech industry. It's a strong foundation for further study or entry-level roles in IT and computing.
Who this course is for
A level 3 course in ICT is a great way to pursue a future career in IT or computing. Changes to the funding at level 3 mean that the BTEC we offered in 2025 is not available in it's current form for 2026, but we are waiting for updates on what provision will fill this gap next year. The T level Digital Software Development is available already, and can be found elsewhere on the site, but for those learners who are looking for a vocational alternative we hope to offer a level 3 in ICT from September. The former BTEC offered a wide range of topics for students who have a specific career pathway that they wished to follow, as well as providing for those who are not sure which specialism they wish to pursue. The replacement course will designed to incorporate theoretical knowledge and understanding with practical and technical skills. Learners will study the relationship between hardware and software, managing and communicating information and data and the principles of designing and developing digital technologies and processes to support organisations. Topics we have covered previously: * Information technology systems * Creating systems to manage information * Using social media in business * Programming * IT project management * Cyber security and incident management * IT service delivery Whilst we cannot currently guarantee that this course will exist in its current form, any student who applies for this will have the opportunity to transfer their application to the T-level programme.
Entry requirements
Four GCSEs at grade 4 or above including English and Maths
What you will learn
You'll develop practical skills in software development and programming fundamentals.
You'll explore how computer networks are designed and managed.
You'll study data management, databases, and how organisations use information.
You'll learn about cybersecurity principles and how to protect digital systems.
You'll work with digital project management tools and techniques.
You'll build knowledge of IT systems architecture and infrastructure.
You'll practise communicating technical ideas clearly to different audiences.
How you will learn
The BTEC Extended Diploma is assessed through a combination of coursework assignments and externally set exams. Assignments are set and marked internally, with some units assessed by Pearson Edexcel through timed exams or set tasks. You'll complete project-based work throughout the year, building a portfolio of evidence alongside your exam preparation. Classes are delivered in person at Slough and Langley College on a full-time daytime timetable.
What you will need to bring
The centre will provide most materials. Slough and Langley College will confirm anything else you need before you start.
Where next
Jobs you could do
IT support technician: first-line technical support for businesses and organisations.
Junior software developer: building and testing applications under senior guidance.
Network administrator: setting up and maintaining computer networks.
Data analyst: working with data to help organisations make decisions.
Cybersecurity analyst: monitoring systems and responding to security threats.
IT project coordinator: supporting the delivery of technology projects.
Web developer: designing and building websites and web applications.
What you could study next
Degree in Computer Science or Information Technology: the BTEC Extended Diploma meets entry requirements for many university IT degrees, making this a direct route into higher education.
Higher National Certificate (HNC) or Higher National Diploma (HND) in Computing: a work-focused Level 4 or 5 alternative to a full degree, often available at further education colleges.
Degree Apprenticeship in Digital Technology Solutions: combines paid work with a degree-level qualification in a tech role.
