IT and Computing Apprenticeships (Intermediate and Advanced)
Introduction to the trade:
The world of IT and computing offers a diverse range of employment opportunities. Almost every business and organisation are dependent on computers and IT systems for their day-to-day operations, so positions vary both in terms of roles and responsibilities as well as industry. This apprenticeship can lead to careers in IT support, system administration, network management, web design, programming, software development, systems analysis and IT Project management. If you have a logical mind and enjoy problem solving, this could be the ideal sector for you. The IT and Computing department at HCT boasts state-of-the-art leading edge technology, operating the latest industry standard programming software and networking technology, accessed within our specially designed PC labs.
The College will assist you in finding employment with a suitable local employer in the first instance. You will receive comprehensive training both at work and at College, following a training programme that is tailored to you and your employer’s needs. Therefore, the skills and knowledge that you acquire will be relevant to your employment and help you to progress in your chosen career.
Each apprentice has a nominated Business Development Officer who will provide co-ordination between the employer, the College and the apprentice, giving continuity and support throughout the apprenticeship.
What qualifications will I gain?
Intermediate Apprenticeship (Level 2)
- Level 2 NVQ Diploma in ICT and Computing - This is the competency part of your apprenticeship and essential for you to achieve the full apprenticeship. This part shows that you are competent in applying the skills you have acquired within the workplace.
- Level 2 BTEC Computing & IT qualification - to show that you have the necessary technical skills, knowledge and understanding of theoretical concepts as well as knowledge and understanding of the relevant market and industry.
- Functional Skills - Providing you will a good level of literacy, numeracy and IT skills. Level 1 English, maths and IT
Advanced Apprentice (Level 3)
You would have either already achieved a Level 2 Intermediate Apprenticeship in ICT & Computing or will have been selected by your employer to fast-track onto the Advanced Apprenticeship, based on your GCSE results.
- Level 3 NVQ in ICT and Computing - This is the competency part of your apprenticeship and essential for you to achieve the full apprenticeship. This part shows that you are competent in applying the skills you have acquired within the workplace.
- Level 3 BTEC Computing & IT qualification - to show that you have the necessary technical skills, knowledge and understanding of theoretical concepts as well as knowledge and understanding of the relevant market and industry.
- Functional Skills - Level 2 Maths, English and IT
How will I be trained?
Apprenticeships are designed with the help of the employers in the industry, so they offer a structured programme that takes you through the skills you need to do a job well. There are targets and checks to make sure that your employer is supporting you and you are making progress.
As an employee you will be in employment for the vast majority of your time as most of the training takes place on the job. The rest takes place at HCT. You can complete this off-the-job training on a day release basis. All the things you study at college during this time will be useful in your job and help you to succeed in your future career.
How will I be assessed?
The NVQ is assessed through a portfolio of evidence and observations in the workplace by the NVQ assessor. The BTEC qualification is assessed by a combination of assignments, projects and internal phase tests. Functional Skills is assessed by external exam.
What are the entry requirements?
- Level 2 Intermediate Apprenticeships requires 4 GCSE grades in the C –E range, to include maths and English or alternatively an appropriate Level 1 qualification
- Level 3 Advanced Apprenticeship requires 5 GSCE grades in the A* - C range, to include maths and English or alternatively an appropriate Level 2 qualification
- All prospective apprentices will need to complete an initial assessment and this will also help determine the level at which you start
- You will also need a suitable employer able and willing to support you during your apprenticeship programme
Competition for places with employers can be fierce, so you will need to show that you are committed, and aware of your responsibilities to both yourself and the company who would employ you. Employers are usually looking for candidates with good GCSE grades. However, attitude, flexibility and a willingness to learn are as important as qualifications. You should be able to work both alone and as part of a team, be methodical and logical, enjoy finding solutions to problems, pay attention to detail and work well under pressure.
Key Facts
Campus: Hereford
Minimum Age: 16
Duration: 1 to 2 years for the Intermediate Apprenticeship (Level 2) whereby you will spend one a day per week at college and the rest of your time in the workplace and a further 2 years for the Advanced Apprenticeship. Advanced apprentices also typically spend 1 day per week in college and the rest of their time in the workplace.
Typical Employment:
qualified apprentices will go on to have successful careers in IT support, system administration, network management, web design, programming, software development, systems analysis or IT Project management.
Progression:
Apprentices can progress to higher level employment and management training at NVQ Level 4 or 5, or alternatively progress to HNC/D or Foundation Degree level study at HCT or university.
Contact: 0800 389 9805
busdev@hct.ac.uk
