BTEC Level 3 Extended Diploma in IT or A Level Computer Science?

[Ozzie9523]

Hi our son is currently in year 11 and we are starting to look at Sixth Forms/Colleges - his current school does not have a Sixth Form. He knows he wants to go into IT, possibly programming. He is an above average student but not top - predicted mostly 6s with maybe the odd 7 if he works hard. Top set for everything except maths, which is set 2 (he currently has a maths tutor). I don't think he is Uni material in all honesty and we and he are not fussed about him going tho we haven't ruled it out completely. If he did go he'd do a Computer Science degree. So we're currently deciding between doing 3 A Levels, in CS, Business Studies which he is interested in and one other which we don't have a clue - I don't think A level maths would be for him, especially as he is currently working hard to get a top grade in GCSE maths. We're looking at a BTEC level 3 diploma in IT which apparently is equivalent to 3 A Levels. I think it might be better for him to concentrate solely on IT as he knows that's what he wants to do. But he keeps wondering about A level computer science. I don't want to put him off but I think he might struggle to do A Levels as his grades are currently all over the place. Does anyone have any experience of these particular subjects/courses? Many thanks

The best thing would be to go to some college open days and ask about the different courses and look at the specs the college does. Also look at methods of assessment.

My ds will go the btec route in music technology as we think he will struggle with academic A levels but we do have one local college that allows a combination of Btec and A levels.

My understanding is that BTECs will train you for a specific job, whilst A levels are more of a broad education. I think the BTEC in IT sounds like a great option for your DS as he seems to know what he wants to do as a career. As previous poster said, definately worth going to open days. With BTECs they have to do quite a bit of work experience as well, I believe, which will help with further employment opportunities. (Certainly true for Science BTEC). Have a look at uni entrance requirements to see if the BTEC in IT is accepted - it will vary depending on the uni. Ask the college where the BTEC is offered where most students go after finishing the BTEC - uni, apprenticeship or employment. Ask them what work experience he will be required to do (if any). This will give you an idea of where he can go from there. My DD is looking at doing a Science BTEC rather than A levels.

Btec National diploma is worth 3 a'levels. Most unis will accept it.

The btec is very in depth and covers more than the one alevel in that subject so they really need to love that subject area.

Assessment will be different between them - alevel focus on end exam, btec more focus on coursework (might have an exam too...check with the colleges).

Look at apprenticeships too as they may offer the qual whilst you work - especially if thinking uni won't be the plan.

He would need Maths A level for a computer science degree wouldn’t he? Have you looked at entry criteria?