Computing AAQ (Cambridge Advanced National)
90980
- Start:
- September
- Duration:
- 2 years
- Level:
- 3
Course Details
The Level 3 Alternative Academic Qualification Cambridge Advanced National in Computing: Application Development (AAQ Computing) is a forward-looking programme designed for students aspiring to pursue careers in the fast-growing digital and technology sectors. This course combines theoretical understanding with practical skills in software design, coding, UX/UI design, and application development, preparing learners for both higher education and industry opportunities. With an emphasis on creativity, problem-solving, and real-world projects, students will gain the technical expertise and professional confidence needed to succeed in computing-related pathways.
Digital skills are required in every industry as well as in everyday life and, with the acceleration of automation and AI in industry it is important to understand how digital technologies are relevant and applied in the context of the sector being studied.
The qualification has four mandatory units covering the following topics:
- Information Technology Systems – Information technology systems, including the relationship between software and hardware, and the issues related to IT systems
- Cyber Security and Incident Management – Types of cyber security attacks, the vulnerabilities in networked systems and how to plan and respond to attacks
- Website Development – The development tools, techniques and processes used in website development and how to test usability, functionality and fitness for purpose
- Relational Database Development – Structure of data, data design and database management systems (DBMS).
The classroom environment offers the opportunity to follow demonstrations, develop knowlege from detailed presentations, group and individual research tasks, and pratical exploration of different software.
This leads to the following knowledge and skills:
- Knowledge of digital technologies and how organisations plan digital projects and follow a project lifecycle
- Understanding of organisation structures and processes and how to embed digital safety to keep data and assets secure
- Technical skills to: o design and build a website to meet user requirements using relevant tools and techniques, including testing for usability, functionality and fitness for purpose to follow a design methodology to create and develop a database design to meet user requirements, including testing the solution
- Transferable skills such as creativity and innovation, written communications, critical thinking and taking personal responsibility.
You will need some basic equipment, such as pens and a notepad and a folder to store your resources. While access to a laptop is not essential, it would be beneficial for completing coursework and for practicing your technical skills. A rich selection of resources will be provided, including textbooks and electronic worksheets.
This qualification can lead to progression to the following degrees:
- BSc UX/UI Design
- BSc Information Systems
- BSc Computer Science. and Artificial Intelligence.
It is also a pathway to embark on a career through a higher apprenticeship programme.
You will need a minimum or five GCSEs, including English at grade 5 and Maths at grade 4 together with three other subjects at grade 4 or above.
The College will always treat each applicant as an individual. Should you not have or not expect to obtain the grades stated above, or not have relevant industry-related experience, the College would still welcome your application for this course as this will enable us to identify whether this course is, in fact, the right course for you or whether another course may be more appropriate.
University Guarantee
Every Sefton Sixth Form College student who successfully achieves a Level 3 qualification and meets attendance and entry requirements, is guaranteed a place on a course at the Hugh Baird University Centre.
Frequently Asked Questions
Below are some frequently asked questions that we are often asked:
Most students study 3 subjects, plus an Enhancement activity. Alongside these, students are assigned a Personal Development group and attend weekly sessions.
Yes.
Yes, students can access our Bursary Package that can help with associated costs, for example; travel, food and equipment. Find out more here.
Yes. During the interview process you will be introduced to a member of our Learner Support Team if necessary. We will take initial details of access arragements. This can be discussed again at enrolment, with follow up appointments with the team during the first few weeks of term.
Yes. You will have timetabled sessions each day of the week. There will be times when you are not in a lesson; this is your personal study time. During these sessions you will be completing activities which mean you are prepared for your subject lessons. This includes completing homework, revision, Brainscape decks, coursework tasks etc.
