Digital and IT

Award in Introduction to Programming (Award/Level 1)

Level 1

What is Level 1?

This is equivalent to GCSE Grades 3-1 / D-G or O Level grades D-G

Computer programming is the process of creating computer programs using code. On this course you will learn about the basic principles of computer programming, how to design, plan, and write a computer program, and how to test and evaluate its functions.

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Level 1

This is equivalent to GCSE Grades 3-1 / D-G or O Level grades D-G

Find out about progression

Course content

The course is a mix of discussion, research tasks, practical tasks, and report writing.

What can this course lead to?

As well as providing a recognised qualification in the subject, this course could also lead on to the College’s Computer Programming (Level 2) course, and the skills-focussed programming courses delivered here.

Course session dates

Useful information

No specialist equipment is required.

When does this start and end?

8 January 2026 - 30 January 2026

What are the entry requirements?

No prior knowledge or experience of Computer Programming is required but students will be required to have completed the Next Steps with Computers course, or already have digital skills equivalent to those listed in that course’s description. Students will also need to be working at Level 1 or above in Literacy.

This sector employs over 35,000 people, in-demand skills and qualities that employers are looking for include problem solving, communication skills and creativity.

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