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Home > Courses > BTEC Level 3 (AAQ) IT (Single)
BUSINESS AND IT btec level 3 For 16-19 Year Olds

BTEC Level 3 (AAQ) IT (Single)

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COURSE OVERVIEW

The BTEC National in Information Technology is a vocational qualification equivalent to one A Level. It’s perfect for students who are passionate about digital technology, problem-solving, and building real-world IT skills. Over two years, you’ll gain hands-on experience while learning how IT supports businesses, protects data, and drives innovation.

This course is ideal if you’re curious about how websites, databases, networks, and cybersecurity work and if you want to build skills that employers really value.

EXAMINATION BOARD: Pearson

ENTRY REQUIREMENTS:

Standard college entry requirements

Vocational level 3 courses are advanced courses, we require five grade 9-4 passes (or equivalent) including English language or maths.

Why study Level 3 (AAQ) BTEC National in Information Technology at Blackpool Sixth?

At Blackpool Sixth, the BTEC Level 3 National Extended Certificate in Information Technology (AAQ) is designed to equip you with practical, industry-relevant skills that are highly valued by employers and higher education institutions. This qualification focuses on developing your understanding of information technology systems, cyber security, website development, and relational database development, preparing you for a successful career in the digital sector.

Our dedicated team of experienced tutors provides high-quality teaching and personalised support to help you achieve your full potential. You'll receive guidance throughout your studies, ensuring you are well-prepared for assessments and future career opportunities. 

How will I be taught?

A combination of teacher delivery, group work, and independent learning.
This subject has a dedicated website that provides the students with essential resources for the whole course.

For externally assessed units you will have mock exams and frequent revision tasks throughout the year. There will be practice tasks incorporated throughout the learning process so you are ready for the formal assessment. All course resources are available online and full access to GSuite and Google Classroom is embedded in the delivery and assessment of the course.

Teacher expertise

At Blackpool Sixth, our Information Technology team is highly experienced and passionate about preparing students for success in the digital sector. Many of our tutors have worked in IT, web development, networking, and cybersecurity. This means they bring real-world knowledge directly into the classroom. Our staff are trained in the latest software, systems, and programming languages, ensuring students learn relevant and current skills. Staff regularly update the curriculum to reflect industry trends, including emerging cyber threats, modern IT practices, and evolving digital tools.

Tutors maintain links with local businesses and industry partners, enabling students to gain insight from guest speakers, workshops, and potential placement opportunities. 

What skills will I develop?

  • Project management – planning and delivering tasks to deadlines
  • Teamwork and collaboration – working effectively in groups
  • Communication skills – presenting technical information clearly
  • Analytical thinking – evaluating data and troubleshooting issues
  • Adaptability – keeping up with emerging digital technologies
  • Managing and troubleshooting - IT systems and networks
  • Implementing cyber security measures and responding to threats
  • Website design and development
  • Relational database design - creation, and management
  • Using industry-standard software and tools for IT tasks
  • Applying technical knowledge to solve real-world IT problems
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How will I be assessed?

Assessment for this BTEC IT course is a mix of external exams and internal coursework, designed to evaluate both your theoretical knowledge and practical skills.

External Assessment

  • Unit 1: Information Technology Systems – assessed through a written exam set and marked by Pearson.
  • Unit 2: Cyber Security and Incident Management – assessed through a written exam set and marked by Pearson.

These exams test your understanding of IT systems, networks, cybersecurity threats, and how to manage and protect digital environments.

Internal Assessment (Coursework)

  • Unit 3: Website Development – assessed through project-based assignments. You will design and create websites that meet real-world requirements.
  • Unit 4: Relational Database Development – assessed through practical assignments where you design, build, and manage databases to store and analyse information.

Coursework is set by Pearson but marked internally by your teachers, with rigorous moderation to ensure standards.

Grading

  • Units are combined to give an overall grade for the qualification.
  • Possible grades: Pass, Merit, Distinction, Distinction*.
  • Grades reflect both your knowledge and your ability to apply it practically in realistic IT scenarios.
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What will you study and other information about BTEC Level 3 IT (SINGLE)

  • What will I study?Plus buttonMinus button

    The course is split into four units, blending theory with practical projects so you can apply what you learn:

    • Unit 1: Information Technology Systems (External Exam)
    • Understand the hardware, software, and networks that power organisations.
    • Explore how IT systems help businesses operate efficiently.
    • Learn how to troubleshoot issues and make systems work better.
    • Unit 2: Cyber Security and Incident Management (External Exam)
    • Discover the threats organisations face online and how to stop them.
    • Learn about firewalls, encryption, secure networks, and incident response.
    • Gain skills to investigate breaches and protect digital information.
    • Unit 3: Website Development (Internal Assessment)
    • Design and build websites that are functional, safe, and user-friendly.
    • Work with coding, content, and design tools to bring a project from concept to completion.
    • Develop skills that can be used for personal projects, freelancing, or future careers.
    • Unit 4: Relational Database Development (Internal Assessment)
    • Create databases to organise, store, and analyse data effectively.
    • Learn how businesses use databases to make smart decisions.
    • Practice designing queries, reports, and data solutions for real-world problems.

  • To get the most out of your studies, students are required to have access to a Windows laptop at college. This will allow you to:

    • Complete coursework, assignments, and practical projects.
    • Install and use industry-standard software for web development, databases, and cybersecurity.
    • Participate in online learning platforms (Google Classroom) and access course materials.
    • Additional resources provided by Blackpool Sixth include:
    • Access to purpose-built IT suites and specialist software.
    • Guidance and support from tutors to ensure you can use all tools effectively.
    • Optional educational visits to universities, IT companies, and industry events. 

  • For students interested in programming, the Computing Club is available. BTEC students will also take part in the Employability award, which incorporates work experience and volunteering in the local community.

Where does it lead?

Completing the BTEC Level 3 IT (Single) (AAQ) opens up a variety of exciting opportunities in both education and the workplace:

Higher Education

  • Degrees in Information Technology, Computer Science, Cyber Security, or Software Development.
  • University courses that focus on digital innovation, programming, and IT management.

Employment

  • IT Support Technician – helping organisations solve technical issues.
  • Web Developer – designing and maintaining websites.
  • Database Administrator – managing and analysing business data.
  • Cyber Security Analyst – protecting systems from digital threats.

Apprenticeships

  • Gain practical experience while earning in roles like IT technician, software developer, or cybersecurity apprentice.
  • Work-based learning that builds industry skills and connections.

Helping you to find your dream career

Blackpool Sixth is dedicated to helping students achieve their future goals. We offer support to our students to help them find the best path for their chosen career.

To see how this course links to career pathways and to career academies which you could join, click the links below.

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🔹 Who can attend? Lower and Upper Sixth Students
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