The BTEC Nationals in Information Technology has been developed in consultation with the IT industry and appropriate sector bodies, to allow learners who are interested in a basic introduction to the study of IT to develop IT knowledge and study areas such as managing and processing data to support business and using IT to communicate and share information. This will give learners the opportunity to: • Complete the course to enter employment in the growing IT sector. • Progress to higher education courses, not necessarily in IT. • Gain a range of skills and techniques, personal skills and attributes essential for a successful working life. Skills students will acquire through the course Include: • Cognitive and problem-solving skills: use critical thinking, approach non-routine problems applying expert and creative solutions, use systems and technology. • Interpersonal skills: communicating, working collaboratively, negotiating and influencing, self presentation. • Interpersonal skills: self-management, adaptability and resilience, self-monitoring and development. • IT Skills: Creating and managing IT systems, creating systems to manage information, using social media in business, data modelling. Although not essential some prior experience of programming would be beneficial to applicants entering onto the course. Given the significant demands of the coursework the following skills are also required: • Self-motivation and being able to work independently • Organisation and good timekeeping • Ability to prioritise workload • Confidence at written communication. Alongside these skills a willingness to present in front of a small audience will be needed.