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Digital Software Development T Level

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Course Type

Course Duration

2 years

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Student in front of computers

Digital Software Development T Level is a two-year course designed to equip students with the knowledge and practical skills needed for a successful career in the tech industry. In Year 1, students explore a broad range of digital topics, including problem-solving, programming, digital environments, and data, alongside vital areas such as legislation, security, and the business context of IT.

They also complete an Employer Set Project, developing essential workplace skills through tasks like project planning, debugging code, designing and building solutions, and evaluating their work. Year 2 focuses on an Occupational Specialism, where students design, develop, and implement their own IT project. To gain real-world experience, students complete a 45-day industry placement, working on an externally set project that mirrors the expectations and demands of the software development sector.

Course Structure:

  • 80% Classroom Learning – Students study 14 core topic areas relevant to the Digital industry.
  • 20% Industry Placement – A minimum of 45 days on placement with an employer to gain on-the-job technical skills.

Digital Software Development Course Outline

As part of the course, you will study the following modules:

Year 1

Units to be studied:

  • Problem-solving
  • Programming
  • Emerging issues and the impact of digital
  • Legislation and regulatory requirements
  • Business context
  • Data
  • Digital environments
  • Security

Employer Set Project

Task 1: Planning a project
Task 2: Identifying and fixing defects in existing code
Task 3: Designing a solution
Task 4a: Developing the solution
Task 4b: Reflective evaluation

Year 2

Occupational Specialism

Design, development and implementation project of an IT project

IT Industry Placement

Complete 45 days placement working in the industry on an Externally Set Project

Benefits of T Levels:

Our T Level courses offer an exciting and career-focused alternative to traditional qualifications, combining classroom learning with hands-on industry experience. One of the biggest benefits is that you’ll finish college with real work experience on your CV (more than most college students), giving you a competitive edge when applying for jobs or university.

To study a T Level, you will need at least five GCSEs at grade 4 or above

Not sure you’ll achieve these grades? We understand that everyone’s circumstances are different, and there may be some flexibility. We encourage you to apply and speak to our team, who can discuss your individual circumstances, career aspirations and the options available to help you achieve your goals.

Visit our Events page to find out when you can come along and speak to the team.

For when you’re not studying, we offer a whole range of enrichment activities which are not only good fun but help you make friends, develop new skills and add to your CV and university applications. There are trips and visits to bring your studies to life, and you can get involved in sport, debating and many other activities.

Through the Student Union and our college committees, you can get involved in volunteering, enterprise, fundraising projects or the prestigious Duke of Edinburgh Award scheme. We run societies like the Medical Society for you to join and we organise events and festivals to celebrate our inclusive and diverse community. As for entertainment, we regularly host film nights and go on theatre trips to see live productions.

The Digital Software Development T Level course is assessed through practicals, exams and an employer-set project.

There are many progression routes upon completion of the T Level Digital Software Development course:

  • You can apply to go to university and study a degree programme
  • Apply for an Apprenticeship
  • Go into employment in a junior role

Career routes include:

  • Software Development Technician
  • Junior Developer
  • Junior Web Developer
  • Junior Application Developer
  • Junior Mobile App Developer
  • Junior Games Developer
  • Junior Software Developer
  • Junior Application Support Analyst
  • Junior Programmer
  • Assistant Programmer
  • Automated Test Developer

What will I learn on the Digital Software Development T Level?
The Digital Software Development T Level covers programming, problem-solving, software development, data, digital environments and cybersecurity. You’ll learn how to design, develop, test and improve software solutions while gaining an understanding of how technology is used in businesses and organisations.

Do I need to know how to code before starting the course?
No, you don’t need previous coding experience to study the Digital Software Development T Level. The course introduces programming concepts and helps you develop your technical skills through practical activities and projects. An interest in computers, technology and problem-solving will help you succeed.

What GCSE grades do I need to study Digital Software Development?
To study the Digital Software Development T Level at Central Saint Michael’s, you’ll need at least five GCSEs at grade 4 or above, including English and Maths. You don’t need to have studied Computer Science at GCSE, although previous experience with computing may be helpful.

Will I learn how to develop websites, apps and software?
Yes. The course develops the programming and software development skills used to create digital solutions, including websites, applications and other software. You’ll learn how to plan projects, write and debug code, design solutions and evaluate your work.

Does the Digital Software Development T Level include work experience?
Yes. You’ll complete an industry placement lasting at least 45 days with an employer. This gives you the opportunity to experience a real working environment, apply your technical knowledge and develop the professional skills needed for a career in the technology industry.

How is the Digital Software Development T Level assessed?
You’ll be assessed through examinations, practical assessments and an employer-set project. In your second year, you’ll also complete an occupational specialism project involving the design, development and implementation of an IT solution. These assessments test your technical knowledge and practical problem-solving abilities.

Is the Digital Software Development T Level equivalent to A Levels?
Yes. The Digital Software Development T Level is a two-year Level 3 qualification equivalent in size to three A Levels. Unlike traditional A Levels, it focuses on developing practical technical skills and includes a substantial industry placement, making it particularly suitable for students interested in technology careers.

Can I go to university with a Digital Software Development T Level?
Yes. The Digital Software Development T Level can provide a route into university courses such as Software Engineering, Computing, Information Technology and related subjects. However, entry requirements vary between universities, and some Computer Science degrees require specific A Levels, so it’s important to check your preferred course requirements.

What careers can I pursue with a Digital Software Development T Level?
The qualification can help you prepare for entry-level roles such as Junior Software Developer, Web Developer, Application Developer, Junior Programmer and Software Testing Technician. You could also progress to a higher apprenticeship, degree apprenticeship or university to develop your technical skills further.

How do I apply for the Digital Software Development T Level at Central Saint Michael’s?
You can apply online through the Central Saint Michael’s Sixth Form website. Before applying, check that you meet the GCSE entry requirements and review the course information. You can also attend an Open Day to meet tutors, explore the facilities and learn more about studying Digital Software Development.

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