BTEC Level 3 National Extended Certificate in Computing

• This qualification is designed to support learners who are interested in learning about the computing sector alongside other fields of study, with a view to progressing to a wide range of higher education courses, not necessarily in the computing sector.

• The Pearson BTEC Level 3 National Extended Certificate in Computing is equivalent in size to one A Level.

• It allows learners to gain fundamental knowledge and skills in computing from which they can progress to broader or more specialist study at Level 3.

• The qualification can be taken in combination with A Levels or other vocational qualifications to meet progression requirements.

• In the BTEC National units there are opportunities during the teaching and learning phase to give learners practice in developing employability skills.

• Where employability skills are referred to in this specification, we are generally referring to skills in the following three main categories:

  • cognitive and problem-solving skills: use critical thinking, approach non-routine problems applying expert and creative solutions, use systems and technology

  • intrapersonal skills: communicating, working collaboratively, negotiating and influencing, self-presentation

  • interpersonal skills: self-management, adaptability and resilience, self-monitoring and development.

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