ICT Key Stage 5

BTEC AAQ Level 3 ICT

The new ICT AAQ (Alternative Academic Qualification), specifically the Level 3 BTEC National in Information Technology, launching in September 2025, is designed to prepare students for both higher education and future employment in the digital and tech-driven world.

The Pearson Level 3 Alternative Academic Qualification BTEC National in Information Technology (Extended Certificate) allows students to study the fundamental knowledge of Information Technology covering the role and implications of using Information Technology systems and cyber-security threats and how to manage attacks. Students will also develop important skills for creating websites to meet a specific purpose and to manage data through the development of a relational database solution. There are two examined units and two internally assessed units where students will engage in practical tasks to develop their Information Technology skills and knowledge. The qualification is designed to be taken alongside A Levels as part of a study programme and can link to learning in A Level Mathematics and A Level Business Studies. It is intended for students that wish to progress into higher education as a pathway to employment

Key Features of the ICT AAQ:

Future-Focused Curriculum: Covers up-to-date IT topics like cybersecurity, data analytics, and digital transformation
Real-World Learning: Assessments are based on practical, real-life scenarios, helping students understand how IT is applied in the workplace
Transferable Skills: Emphasizes communication, problem-solving, teamwork, and project management—skills valued across industries
University and Employer Recognition: Developed with input from universities and employers, ensuring relevance and credibility

Hands-On Experience: Students gain practical IT skills that are directly applicable in roles like IT support, software development, and digital marketing.
Career Readiness: The qualification builds confidence and competence in using digital tools and solving tech-related problems.
Pathway to Higher Education: Recognized by universities, it opens doors to degrees in computer science, information systems, and related fields.

BTEC Level 3 National Extended Certificate

Information Technology (IT) involves the use of computers in industry, commerce, the arts and elsewhere. IT includes aspects of IT systems architecture, human factors, project management and the general ability to use computers. Increasingly businesses are implementing IT strategies to manage and process data both to support many business processes and to deliver new opportunities

The course is designed for students interested in studying a range of information technology topics that will enhance their progression to a range of higher education courses, not necessarily in IT.

What is covered?

Students will complete four units over the two year course with the qualification being equivalent to one A Level.

Over the course of the two years, students will complete 4 units (three mandatory and one optional).

Unit 1: Information Technology Systems
Unit 2: Creating Systems to Manage Information
Unit 3: Using Social Media in Business
Unit 4 (Optional unit): Possible topics include Data Modelling or Website Development.

Entry Requirements

You will require a grade 5 in GCSE English and a grade 4 in GCSE Maths and also, you will also need a P2 in iMedia if you studied this course at GCSE.