The Pearson BTEC Level 1/Level 2 in Information and Creative
Technology has been designed primarily for young people aged 14 to 19 who may
wish to explore a vocational route throughout Key Stage 4, but it is also suitable for
other learners who want a vocationally focused introduction to this area of study.
It has been developed to:
● inspire and enthuse learners to become technology savvy – producers of
technology products and systems and not just consumers
● give learners the opportunity to gain a broad understanding and knowledge of
the Information Technology sector and some aspects of the creative industries
e.g. electronic publishing or multimedia production
● allow for a flexible choice of units to meet the needs of learners with different
interests and inclinations by using different pathways
● give learners a more focused understanding of Information and Creative
Technology through the selection of optional specialist units
● explore the fundamentals of technology and gain the practical skills, knowledge
and understanding to design, make and review:
o information technology systems and products, e.g. a relational database
o creative technology products, e.g. a digital animation
o products that combine information technology and creative technology,
e.g. a website
● encourage personal development, motivation and confidence, through practical
participation and by giving learners responsibility for their own projects
● encourage learners to develop their people, communication, planning and
team-working skills by having the opportunity to select from optional units
available in the qualification structure
● give opportunities for learners to achieve a nationally recognised level 1 or level 2
qualification in Information and Creative Technology
● support progression into a more specialised level 3 vocational or academic course
or into an apprenticeship
● give learners the potential opportunity to enter employment within a wide range
of job roles across the Information Technology sector and some aspects of the
creative industries, such as Software Engineer, Website Content Manager,
Computer Animator and Graphic Designer.
The Pearson BTEC Level 1/Level 2 First Award in Information and Creative
Technology has one externally assessed mandatory unit Unit 1: The Online World
and a further mandatory unit: Unit 3: A Digital Portfolio, which is internally assessed.
Unit 1: The Online World provides learners with a firm understanding of the
fundamentals of digital technology and the pivotal role they play in today’s
online world.
English and mathematics have been contextualised within the assessment aims. This
allows learners to practise these essential skills in naturally occurring and meaningful
contexts, where appropriate.
The qualification provides opportunities for learners to develop their communication
skills as they progress through the course. This can be achieved through
presentations and in discussions where they have the opportunity to express their
opinions.
- Teacher: James Farrington