WHAT QUALIFICATIONS DO I NEED TO START THIS COURSE?

 

• Average GCSE point score of 4.5
• 4 in Maths & English
• An interest in computer programming
• Level 2 qualification in a relevant subject at Distinction, if taken

Plus our standard LaSWAP entry requirements for Level 3 Vocational and Technical courses, which can be found here

WHY STUDY THIS COURSE?

The T-Level in Digital Software Development prepares you for the fast-growing and dynamic Tech industry.

You will learn a range of high-tech digital design skills using our purpose-built digital learning space, with state-of-the-art technology.

You will spend 315 hours (45 days) minimum working with an employer on an industry placement, ensuring you have real experience of the workplace and a skilled job.

You will be provided with a comprehensive careers education programme to inform your 18+ decision making.

To learn more about T Levels please click here

CORE CONTENT

Students will develop both in-depth knowledge and practical skills on this 2-year Level 3 Programme, comprising of:

The Core Component:

• Problem-solving
• Programming
• Emerging issues and the impact of digital
• Legislation and regulatory requirements
• Business context
• Data Science
• Digital Environments
• Cyber Security
• The Occupational Specialism Component:
• Analysing a problem to define requirements and acceptance criteria aligned with designing, implementing and testing software.
• Changing, maintaining and supporting software-creating solutions in a social and collaborative environment.
• Discovering, evaluating and applying reliable sources of knowledge.
• Applying ethical principles and managing risks in line with legal and regulatory requirements when developing software.

The Industry Placement:

• A minimum of 45 days overall, and will give students practical insights into their sector and an opportunity to embed the knowledge and skills learned in the classroom.

A RANGE OF TRANSERABLE SKILLS

Analyse a problem, understand user needs, define requirements and set acceptance criteria.

Discover, evaluate and apply reliable sources of knowledge.

Work within legal and regulatory frameworks when developing software.

Create solutions in a social and collaborative environment.

Implement a solution using at least two appropriate languages.

Test a software solution; Change, maintain and support software.

EXAMINATION & ASSESSMENT

Year 12 - Core Component (50% of overall grade):

Course Components	Assessment Format	Duration	Weight	Objective
Core Exam 1 (Paper 1)	Written exam	2.25 hrs	30% of Core	To test the student's knowledge (AO1) of core concepts across the 8 content areas and their ability to apply this knowledge (AO2) in various scenarios.
Core Exam 2 (Paper 2)	Written exam	2.25 hrs	30% of Core
Employer Set Project (ESP):	Synoptic Project Task (controlled assessment)	14.5 hrs	40% of Core	To test the student's ability to synthesize and apply their core knowledge to a realistic, industry-set problem. This synoptic project assesses problem-solving, planning, and practical application.

The Core Component is graded A* to E, or U (Unclassified). Students must achieve at least a Grade E in both the Core Exams and the Employer Set Project to pass the Core Component.

 

Year 13 - Occupational Specialism Project (50% of overall grade) and Industrial Placement:

Course Components	Type of Assessment	Duration	Weight	Objective
Occupational Specialism	Synoptic Project Task (controlled assessment)	35 hrs	100% overall	A substantial, skills-based project that requires students to demonstrate threshold competence in the software development lifecycle. This involves hands-on development, using at least two programming languages, and full project management.
Industrial Placement	Up to two employers virtual and onsite	315 hrs	Requirement to pass the course

The Occupational Specialism is graded as Distinction, Merit, Pass, or Unclassified (U).

Performance Outcomes:

PO1 - Analyse a problem to define requirements and acceptance criteria, aligned to user needs

PO2 - Design, implement and test software

PO3 - Change, maintain and support software

PO4 - Create solutions in a social and collaborative environment

PO5 - Discover, evaluate and apply reliable sources of knowledge

PO6 - Apply ethical principles and manage risks in line with legal and regulatory requirements when developing software.

The Final T Level grade is awarded based on the combination of the grades for the Core Component and the Occupational Specialism Component. Overall Grade: Pass, Merit, Distinction or Distinction*. For example, the highest overall grade (Distinction*) requires an A* in the Core Component and a Distinction in the Occupational Specialism.

PROGRESSION: careers

Junior Developer

Junior Web Developer

Junior Application Developer

Junior Mobile App Developer

Junior Games Developer

Junior Software Developer

Junior Application Support Analyst

Junior Programmer

Assistant Programmer

Automated Test Developer

PROGRESSION: Higher education and training paths 

Level 3 Software Technician (Apprenticeship)

Level 4 Software Developer (Apprenticeship)

Higher National Certificate/Diplomas

BSc Computer Games Programming

BSc Software Engineering BSc

BA Virtual Reality Design

BSc Computing

BSc Digital Media Design and Development

BSc Computer Science

   We are proud to be Expert Members of the Pearson T Level Provider Panel