Networking and Cybersecurity BTEC Level 2

• What will I study and learn?

  The qualification has been developed in consultation with employers in the IT sector. This means that it will enable learners to develop the skills and behaviours that give them the best opportunity to be successful in applying for work. All the content of the qualification is mandatory and relates directly to the skills, knowledge and behaviours expected by employers in the IT sector.
  
  The areas learners will cover include:

  • understanding IT network features and functions, common practices in network security, and the function and features of the main network appliances
  • setting up new equipment and upgrading existing systems • IT service solutions and the issues encountered in IT solutions in an organisation
  • use of ethical hacking techniques to test the security of a network
  • creating and maintaining a network. Learners will also cover broader skills in literacy and numeracy, which will help them to progress. Learners will develop other transferable technical and practical skills in communication (working with colleagues, customers and clients), and research and project work (giving them the opportunity to show reflective practice by suggesting different approaches to solving a problem

• How is the course assessed?

  Internal assessment Units 1, 2, 8 and 11 are assessed through internal assessment. Internal assessment allows learners to apply technical knowledge and demonstrate mastery of practical and technical skills through realistic tasks and activities. This style of assessment promotes deep learning through ensuring the connection between knowledge and practice.
  
  Learners must achieve all the internal units at Pass grade or above to achieve the qualification.
  
  There are two external assessments, which assess units that contribute 33% of the total qualification GLH. The external assessments for this qualification take the form of a task that allows learners to apply their skills and knowledge in context to a realistic work-based activity, and an onscreen test that includes a variety of onscreen question types that allows learners to apply their knowledge to several work-related contexts. The external assessments are linked to Unit 3: Security Protection and Risk Management and Unit 5: IT Service Solutions,.

• What formal entry requirements will I need?

  Minimum requirements - 5 GCSEs at grade D/3 including English or Maths at grade 3 or equivalent Functional Skills.

• What could the course lead to in higher education or careers?

  Achieving this qualification will give learners an advantage when applying for a job in IT. The types of jobs they will be ready for are:
  
  

  • junior network engineer
  • network support.

  
  The qualification gives learners a sound basis to progress to a Level 3 qualification, such as the BTEC Level 3 Extended Diploma in Computing, BTEC Level 3 Extended Diploma in IT or a Level 3 digital apprenticeship.

• Are there any costs involved?

  There are no costs involved