Level 3 Diploma Software Development
Subject Area
Digital & IT
Student Type
Adults
Study Mode
Online Learning
Course Type
Adult Further Education
What is the course about?
This qualification was developed in consultation with industry experts to provide students with the foundational understanding of software development concepts. It is a stepping stone for anyone who wants to understand the foundations of software development as their first step to a career in tech. You do not need any prior knowledge of software development. This course is open to complete beginners and those with some knowledge who want to develop or strengthen their foundational knowledge.
Students will gain an understanding of the core concepts in seven areas of software development. This will enable them to progress to a higher level course in software development, web application development, robotics or project management.
It is a blended course with online tuition one evening a week provided by Warrington & Vale Royal College along with supported online learning and self-study using Code Institute's online Learning Management System (LMS). This means that course content is available to students 24/7 so they can study at any time.
Why should I choose the course?
This 30-week accredited blended learning program serves as a natural progression beyond the Level 2 programming course. Upon successful completion, participants will attain a Level 3 accreditation recognised by the industry, positioning them favourably for enrolment in advanced programming courses or a transition into the digital job market.
The program's blended learning approach entails one evening per week of remote delivery time with a highly qualified IT teacher. This will be supported further by a tutorial slot every week, allocated to 1-1 support as required. This format provides flexibility and accommodates learners' various schedules and commitments.
What will I learn?
Students will learn about seven key areas of software development. They will gain a rounded view of the role that they play in the software development process.
Project Management
Concepts, processes, and tools used to manage IT projects.
JavaScript
Develop an understanding of this text-based programming language to create interactive elements on web pages.
Maths for Computing
Skills including matrices, series, and probability and learning how to interpret data gathered for a defined purpose.
Object Oriented Programming
Examine the features, tools and techniques of object oriented programming and use a structured approach to the design and development of a program.
Programming Implementation
Learners will become familiar with the underpinning concepts of programming and how it is implemented.
Robot Technology
Learn the principles and operations of robots and robot control systems, types of sensors. Develop the skills to design and develop a program to control a robot.
Software Testing
Understand testing strategies and techniques; the stages from planning to acceptance testing; and how automation can be applied to software testing.
What will the course lead on to?
The L3 Diploma in Software Development prepares learners to:
- Progress to the Level 5 in Web Application Development
- Develop their skills further in tech-adjacent roles
- Pursue a higher level course in
- Games development,
- Robotics,
- Project management
- Data analytics
- Software development or testing
- Build on this foundation with an apprenticeship
What support is available?
We have a team of staff dedicated to providing learning support if required, as well as a Welfare Team that is on hand to offer guidance, support and help when needed. Additionally, eligible students can access a wide range of finance and funding support to help them during their time at college.
Click here for learning support: https://wvr.ac.uk/college-life/learning-support
Why should I choose to study the course at Warrington & Vale Royal College?
You will attend weekly tutorial sessions in our Advanced Creative & Digital Skills Academy, or this can be delivered online, which will support you through the course. The ACDS Academy provides access to all of the latest digital technologies, and we have highly experienced staff to support you to develop the essential digital skills so that you can flourish in future progression opportunities.
The online delivery includes 24/7 access to course content on the Learning Management System (LMS) and the student community channels where students can access peer support - career development advice is also built into the platform. This helps students understand more about the industry and potential career direction.
Although there are no exams, you will be expected to create a portfolio of work that the students may need to complete work outside of the classroom.
You will be assessed through seven summative assessments, one at the end of each module. The assessments are marked internally and then verified externally by Gateway Qualifications. All units are marked Pass, Merit or Distinction.
What are the entry requirements?
You will need to hold a Level 2 qualifiaction in Computer Programming or have prior knowledge suitable at the level required for the course.
While it is ideal for individuals to have previously completed a Level 2 qualification, this course is suitable for those with no previous experience of software development and those working in tech-adjacent roles who want to understand the fundamentals of software development. Nevertheless, learners are expected to demonstrate the requisite skills and capabilities to engage with Level 3 material effectively. A foundation in English and Maths at Level 2 is beneficial for a successful educational journey.What are my funding options?
Learners may be eligible to have the full cost of the course funded under the National Skills Fund or Adult Education Budget, Personal Learning Account or other funding streams. The college can provide information on the eligibility criteria. Please contact Learner Services on 01925 494 400.
This course is also included in the Level 3 Free Courses for Job offer. https://www.gov.uk/guidance/free-courses-for-jobs
Are there any additional costs associated with the course?
Students must have access to a personal computer and will need broadband access with a reliable connection in order to complete the mandatory remote learning
Guidance on the latest version of relevant software will be provided by your course leader.
Careers Information
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