Academic Vocational Level 3 (IT) Pathway (NEW)

Students with 5 GCSEs at grade 5 or above (including English and Maths at grade 4) may follow the Academic Vocational Level 3 IT Pathway. This route combines two AAQ qualifications in Computing & Cybersecurity with a single BTEC Level 3 Business qualification. It is designed for students who prefer a more applied style of learning with a balance of coursework and external assessment, and who are aiming for progression to university or higher-level apprenticeships in areas such as Computing, IT Support, Cybersecurity, Digital Technology or Business Technology roles.

Entry Requirements

AAQ + BTEC

A minimum of 5 GCSEs at grade 4 and above

Grade 4 or above in ICT/Business

Grade 4 or above in English and Maths

Overview

OCR Level 3 AAQ in Cyber Security and Networks (Extended Certificate – 360 GLH)

Exam Board: OCR
Qualification Title:
OCR Level 3 Alternative Academic Qualification Cambridge Advanced National in Cyber Security and Networks (Extended Certificate)

Guided Learning Hours: 360 GLH (Equivalent to 1 full A Level)

Course Overview / Content:
Students develop an understanding of network technologies, cyber security threats, and how to protect systems and data. They gain practical experience in designing, securing, and maintaining networked systems.

Mandatory Units:

F193: Fundamentals of Cyber Security (75 GLH, external exam)
F194: Fundamentals of Networks (70 GLH, external exam)
F195: Preventing Cyber Attacks (75 GLH, non-exam assessment – NEA)

Y2 Units:

F196: Digital Forensic Investigation (70 GLH, NEA)
F197: Penetration Testing and Incident Response (70 GLH, NEA)

Assessment Methods:
Combination of externally assessed written exams and internally assessed NEA (project-based) units.

A Level Equivalence:
360 GLH Extended Certificate = 1 full A Level (up to 56 UCAS points for Distinction*).

OCR Level 3 AAQ in Computing: Application Development (Extended Certificate – 360 GLH)

Exam Board: OCR
Qualification Title:
OCR Level 3 Alternative Academic Qualification Cambridge Advanced National in Computing: Application Development (Extended Certificate)

Guided Learning Hours: 360 GLH (Equivalent to 1 full A Level)

Course Overview / Content:
This qualification focuses on designing, developing, and evaluating software applications, with an emphasis on user experience, coding, and problem-solving. Learners gain hands-on experience with application design, development, and testing.

Mandatory Units:

F160: Fundamentals of Application Development (75 GLH, external exam)
F161: Developing Application Software (70 GLH, external exam)
F162: Designing and Communicating UX/UI Solutions (75 GLH, NEA)

Y2 Units:

F164: Website Development (70 GLH, NEA)
F166: Software Development (70 GLH, NEA)

Assessment Methods:
Combination of externally assessed written exams and internally assessed NEA (project-based) units.

A Level Equivalence:
360 GLH Extended Certificate = 1 full A Level (up to 56 UCAS points for Distinction*).

BTEC National Level 3

Extended Certificate in Business (equivalent to 1 A Level)

This complements the AAQ qualifications by developing essential skills in marketing, finance, and customer-facing operations—highly valuable for tech and business-technology careers.

Course Content

Unit 1 – Exploring Business

Unit 2 – Developing a Marketing Campaign

Unit 3 – Personal & Business Finance

Unit 14 – Investigating Customer Service

Entry Requirements

5 GCSEs at grade 4 or above
At least grade 4 in English and Maths

Assessment

Internal coursework

External assessments/exams

Entry Requirements

Minimum of 5 GCSEs at grade 4 including English (language or Literature) and Mathematics at Grade 4 and above.

Entry Requirements

AAQ / BTEC Level 3 – Computing, Cyber Security and Business

Academic Vocational Level 3 (IT) Pathway (NEW)

Entry Requirements

Overview

BTEC National Level 3

Extended Certificate in Business (equivalent to 1 A Level)

Course Content

Entry Requirements

Assessment

Entry Requirements