Applied ICT Post 16

Applied ICT AS Level - single and double award

Entry Guidance:

5 GCSEs at grades A* to C or equivalent.  A credit in CiDA or DiDA together with Grade B in English Language and Mathematics is preferable. 

Syllabus Outline:

  • Dependent on student numbers taking up the course it may be possible to take either as a single or double award AS level i.e. taking up to two option choices. It is hoped that the two option choice will be offered as a Career Academy Foundation course - see below.
  • There is a greater emphasis on the vocational element of ICT with assessment by portfolio.
  • Students will experience the ICT environment in a variety of approaches including work experience, links with local employers, case studies and research.

Single Award

The single award consists of three units:-

Unit 1 - ICT and Society
Unit 2 - ICT and Organisations
Unit 3 - Data Handling

Double Award - The UK Career Academy will run with the Double Award

Students would take units 1, 2 and 3 plus an additional compulsory unit.

Unit 4 - ICT Solutions and two of the optional units from
Unit 5 - Fundamentals of programming
Unit 6 - Computer Artwork
Unit 7 - Creating a Website

The Single Award would need 5 hours per week teaching. The Double Award would need 10 hours.

Methods of Assessment:

The externally assessed unit will be done in 15 hours of controlled conditions, where students are not permitted to communicate with anyone, nor use textbooks or access the internet or College intranet. They are, however, allowed to use electronic notes that have been completed outside the session as well as digital images stored on file. Portfolio assessment is used for the majority of the course.

General Comments

Students with a good working knowledge of software applications will be at an advantage when creating portfolios. Students will be expected to work independently and adopt standard ways of working such as file management, research techniques, use of presentation applications etc. The CiDA and DiDA course provides an excellent preparation for this course.

The qualification allows for a number of progression routes into HE or employment.

The double award A level Applied ICT course will be offered through the Career Academy Foundation. The aim of the Career Academy Foundation is to transform young people's life chances.This unique opportunity offers successful students the following additional benefits:

  • Internship - a paid summer work placement;
  • A successful ICT partner/mentor for one to one meetings;
  • Professional presentations from visiting specialists;
  • ICT trips and visits of direct relevence to the course.

Places will be limited for this excellent career opportunity. Selection for the course will follow UKCAF guidelines and applicants should register their interest early with the Head of department, Mr Newstead.

For further information visit the Career Academy Website

Download the full Sixth Form ICT brochure